Eddie Howe has been cautious not to overhaul the entire Newcastle United squad in one transfer window, but he does have a fervent need to improve his wide options after a disappointing campaign for many players.
The Magpies are interested in Leeds United’s Jack Harrison, but CBS reporter Ben Jacobs believes the two clubs are £10m apart in their valuation of the 25-year-old.
He told Give Me Sport: “Newcastle have enquired about Jack Harrison. That does tell you that, alongside a young, hot talent, they are also considering a bit more of a proven Premier League product.
“Newcastle are thinking of £20million to £25million if they’re to proceed and Leeds are holding out for £35million-plus. I don’t think that Newcastle, even though they are still considering that move, will pay above the odds.
“That’s the challenge. Newcastle are being very sensible and they’re getting quoted, at times, fees that are considerably above market.”
Harrison had a hand in 16 goals from 36 Premier League games in 2020/21 and nine goals from 35 league games in 2021/22, so he’s got a good output in the top-flight.
The 25-year-old is a stark improvement on most of Howe’s current options too. Ryan Fraser scored two goals with three assists from 27 league games last season, Jacob Murphy scored one goal with two assists from 33 league games and Miguel Almiron scored one goal from 30 league games.
Allan Saint-Maximin, who scored five goals with five assists from 35 games, contributed more than the trio put together, so Harrison would be a regular based on his numbers alone.
But it remains to be seen if Newcastle will meet Leeds’ demands to bring Harrison to St James’ Park as Howe won’t pay over the odds for players.
In other news, Newcastle ‘definitely’ trying to sign Armando Broja
