Former Republic of Ireland international midfielder Kevin Kilbane believes it would be too early for Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff to join Manchester United.
The Newcastle United academy graduate became a mainstay in the Magpies side at the start of 2019 and starred against the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester City.
The former Kilmarnock and Blackpool loanee starred during his 13 appearances this term and was nominated for February's Premier League Player of the Month award.
His form would have almost certainly earned him a place in the England under-21 squad for this summer's European Championships but a knee injury suffered in March's 2-0 defeat to West Ham ruled the 21-year-old out for the rest of the campaign.
Nonetheless, his performances caught the eye of Manchester United who have identified Longstaff as a summer transfer target.
It is understood Longstaff wants to remain at Newcastle but he is one of a number of young players the Red Devils are targeting in a summer overhaul in the transfer market.
However, when asked about whether Longstaff is ready for the step up at Manchester United, former Everton and Wigan star Kilbane believes he isn't quite ready for the step up to a top six club.
"A good player [but] it’s still too early in my mind," Kilbane told Off The Ball.
"He’s not played enough football, certainly at the top level. The games that I have seen him play, very good footballer and a technically good footballer.
"[But] it’s too early for that one. Bad idea for now."
