Steve Bruce has admitted that he has concerns over the progress of a new contract for Matty Longstaff, as reported by Sky Sports.
The 19-year old midfielder, who made his Premier League debut back in October, is out of contract in the summer.
The Magpies boss is keen on tying the midfielder down to a new long-term contract, while he is also patiently waiting for a breakthrough in negotiations with Matty’s brother, Sean, whose contract Bruce also wants to extend.
Times Sport reported last week that both AC Milan and Inter Milan were pursuing Matty Longstaff, with the England Under-20 international available to sign a pre-contract deal to join either club at the San Siro.
However, Bruce is hoping that common sense will prevail in the end, despite admitting that he is concerned. When asked about Matty’s contract situation, as reported by Sky Sports, Bruce said:
It’s a concern for us all, of course it is. I hope we can get that tied up, I really do.
But, they’ve got the power these days, the players. We see it often now with young players as well. I hope there’s a bit of common sense.
There’s nobody, at 19, played more games than him. He’s got an opportunity.
Look, we always want to keep your best young players, especially if they’re Geordies, of course. Let’s hope they both get tied up.
Read Newcastle Verdict
As Steve Bruce mentioned, it should be imperative that the Magpies ensure they keep two local lads and boyhood Newcastle supporters at the club at all costs. Not only do they bring quality onto the pitch, but their connection to the club brings heart and spirit where it is very much needed.
With the club’s most recently proposed takeover bid somewhat in doubt (Mirror Sport), it remains to be seen whether the club will have much, if any, money to play around with in the summer.
As the club look to continue clawing their way towards the Europa League spots, not needing to replace a midfielder in their squad could certainly help the cause, so more than anything, keeping Longstaff may save them from needless spending.
The 19-year old has scored twice in seven Premier League appearances this season (Transfermarkt), and it is likely that the Magpies will see him accrue more game time before the season is out. With that development, Newcastle will want to reap the rewards as he continues to improve, and so they will hope he’ll commit himself on Tyneside.
