Newcastle ace Sean Longstaff is considering his future following the shock exit of Rafa Benitez – and that’s great news for Manchester United .
Sources close to the Toon midfielder – wanted by Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – confirm he is “bitterly upset” about Benitez leaving St James Park.
All of which is further encouragement for Man United in their pursuit of Longstaff, 21, who is currently recovering from knee ligament damage sustained in March.
Solskjaer views the Newcastle playmaker as another vital piece in the ongoing overhaul of his United squad after being impressed with his breakthrough season in the Premier League.
Longstaff fits the Reds’ transfer strategy as they look to lure some of the finest young “home” talent in the English game.
They have signed £15millon Wales winger Daniel James, 21, from Swansea and Crystal Palace right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, also 21, for £50m.
Originally, United reckoned they would have to wait until next summer before being able to prise lifelong-Newcastle fan Longstaff from his beloved club.
The player recently made it clear he wanted to stay and continue his impressive, rapid development under Benitez.
But that was before the Spanish coach, who gave Longstaff his league debut at Liverpool on Boxing Day, was shown the door in acrimonious fashion by club supremo Mike Ashley.
Benitez was shocked by the club’s decision to abruptly end contract talks last Monday - 24 hours after the Daily Star Sunday’s exclusive story he could earn FIVE times more in China.
Longstaff, who signed a new four-year deal last season, Is said to be equally surprised and unhappy by the sudden twist in events.
Now he intends to see who is appointed as Benitez’s successor before making up his mind whether to stay – or push for an immediate move to United.
The Reds believe an offer in the region of £25m should be sufficient to persuade Newcastle to off-load their rising star before the August 8 deadline.
