LONG WAIT GOES ON FOR NEW DEALS
Sean says brothers keen to complete Toon talks
SEAN LONGSTAFF says he is still waiting for Newcastle to sort out new deals for himself and brother Matty.
Talks are dragging on with Matty’s contract expiring in June, leaving him free to move for about only £400,000 in compensation.
Sean has two-and-a-half years to run on his deal, but it is an Under-23 contract he signed in December 2018 shortly before breaking into the first team. He has become a target for Manchester United and is looking for about £60,000 a week.
Sources at the club say there is urgency over a deal for 19-year-old Matty, and talks are “ongoing” but manager Steve Bruce conceded recently there is an “impasse.”
Club and agent are looking to the summer to strike a deal with Sean, 22, and want both midfielders to stay long term.
Asked about his contract, the older Longstaff said: “Me and Matty, we’re waiting for the club. It’s up to them what they want to do.”
It is understood fresh talks have taken place and improved offers made.
Sean has turned to Geordie team-mate Paul Dummett for advice on coping with the scrutiny local young stars get on Tyneside, including how to “prove people wrong”. And he has vowed to bounce back from criticism of some of his displays since returning to fitness after a knee injury last March.
Sean said: “At times, I feel I’ve done all right, but football’s a game of opinions. I’m my toughest critic. I can walk off the pitch and know if I’ve done enough.
“To play for Newcastle is something I’ve always dreamt of. There have been ups and downs along the way.Ultimately, though, it’s been a great year, and I’ve enjoyed every second of it.”
Home-grown talent often receives criticism on Tyneside, with local lads such as Steve Taylor, Shola Ameobi and Dummett all suffering harsh scrutiny in the past.
Sean said: “There’s no one better to speak about it. I remember going to watch Dummy, and we could win 10-0 and Dummy would still do something wrong [in some people’s eyes].
“If you don’t win games, people will ask questions. The fans are amazing, and I’m trying to give my best.”