United target King hints at an exit from Bournemouth

NEWCASTLE United have been linked with Bournemouth striker Josh King in recent months – and the forward has suggested he could be willing to leave the south coast this summer.

The 26-year-old, pictured above, impressed during the 2016/17 campaign with 16 Premier League goals for the Cherries, leading to interest from Everton.

However, King has hinted he is unhappy with the way in which he was shifted into a deeper role at Dean Court last season – during which time he scored just eight times in 33 games.

The Magpies have been credited with an interest in the Norway international, Rafa Benitez known to be prioritising signing a striker this summer.

Seemingly King is open to leaving Bournemouth this summer – if he is not given guarantees he will shift back to a central-striker position in preference to Jermain Defoe or Callum Wilson.

The latter is also a long-term Newcastle target.

King said: “I do not like to blame anyone but I have to say I was surprised I returned in pre-season and was switched to a deeper position than that in which I did so well in the year before.

“I started one match as the spearhead up front this year.

“I am 110% unhappy with the change in position.

“I am not satisfied and my coach knows this.

“I think most people know where I am the best.

“I have three years left on my contract and I am a Bournemouth player now but in football you never know.

“I just want to play in the position I am best at.

”Why change something which worked so well?

“I do not understand and maybe it has been a little bit in my mind all season.”