Sean Longstaff to Leeds United: Player’s transfer stance, Newcastle comments, and level of play

All the most recent transfer news and rumors about the future of Newcastle United player Sean Longstaff and Leeds United’s interest.

Leeds United are looking to add a midfielder to Daniel Farke’s squad as they prepare for their Premier League return.

Ao Tanaka, Ilia Gruev, and loan signing Joe Rothwell were all given key roles in the Whites’ Championship-winning campaign, but the latter has since returned to parent club Bournemouth before making a low-cost move to Scottish giants Rangers.

There is a consensus that the Whites need to add at least one midfielder to their squad before the Premier League season begins with a home game against Everton in mid-August, but at least two new options could be added before the summer transfer window closes on September 1.

The Whites have been linked with a transfer for Hoffenheim striker Anton Stach, who impressed during his two-year stay with the Bundesliga side. The scouting squad at Elland Road has noticed his strength and tenacity. However, there looks to be more work to be done before an agreement can be reached, as reports in Germany suggest Hoffenheim will only entertain offers beyond £17 million, potentially sparking a bidding war with many other clubs thought to be interested in a move.

The main talking point this week has been Leeds’ latest attempts to recruit Newcastle United striker Sean Longstaff, who is thought to have been on the Whites’ radar for almost a year and was identified as a potential target throughout last season.

What are the details on Leeds United’s interest in Sean Longstaff?

Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff is reportedly of interest to Leeds United. | George Wood/Getty Images

As previously stated, Longstaff is not a fresh target for the Whites, and their attention has been ongoing for some time. Despite previous rumors of bids being made during the season, it appears that the first genuine attempts to persuade Newcastle to approve a deal for their academy product have occurred in recent days and weeks. According to reports, Leeds made an initial offer of £10 million, with potential add-ons of up to £2 million. However, this offer was rejected after careful thought.

What do we know about Leeds United’s stance after Newcastle United turned down their bid for Sean Longstaff?

LEEDS, ENGLAND – APRIL 12: Daniel Farke, Manager of Leeds United, applauds the fans following the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United FC and Preston North End FC at Elland Road on April 12, 2025 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Although no public remark has been made following the Magpies’ decision to reject the latest offer for Longstaff, the YEP understands the Elland Road leadership is taking its time to decide their next action. Leeds are reportedly ‘evaluating their options’ in their pursuit of Longstaff, but they may revive their interest in the Newcastle midfielder in the coming weeks. The club is also considering other prospects, including Hoffenheim’s Anton Stach and Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer.

What has Eddie Howe stated regarding Sean Longstaff’s future with Newcastle United?

Sean Longstaff has been linked with a move away from Newcastle United | Getty Images

The Magpies squad returned to training earlier this week, and Howe has yet to speak to the media about Longstaff’s future at the club, or any of his other players who are thought to be garnering interest from abroad. However, we can look back on some Howe statements from the last month of last season when he opened up on the midfielder’s future at St James Park.

In April, the Newcastle manager said of the midfielder: “His role is to be ready to play, to come on, and I’ve trusted him in big games where he has come on and played his part.” Sean’s long-term status is a little more uncertain, although behind the scenes, he has been good. I don’t need to motivate him. He should motivate himself; he is here to represent the team he loves. He must be prepared to seize the opportunity that presents itself.

“Any stream of thinking I have to follow, I can’t do it for all 25 players. But Sean is motivated. He has been fantastic behind the scenes, is training hard, and has undeniable talent. He also has a contract for the next year. He has complete choice over what he chooses to do for his long-term future. And we are absolutely happy to have him. He has our full regard; he has been an excellent servant to the football club. He’s still a valuable member of the club, with a significant role to play.”

What has Sean Longstaff stated regarding his future with Newcastle United?

TARGET: Leeds United are interested in Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff but have alternatives in midfield (Image: Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Again, extremely little. The Magpies academy graduate has yet to publicly respond to any interest from Leeds or his own opinion on his future at Newcastle, and he is unlikely to do so anytime soon. According to sources, Longstaff is considering a move to Elland Road. He wants to pay a fee to his hometown club rather than leaving for free when his current deal expires next summer. Longstaff resumed training with Newcastle this week, following extra sessions with former Sunderland player Andrew Cartwright.

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