Newcastle supporters are united this week, mourning the departure of Rafa Benitez. However, the feeling of sadness is not going to stop other clubs taking advantage of the situation.
Manchester United are preparing to make an official bid for midfielder Sean Longstaff, according to a report in the Evening Standard. The Red Devils have been finalising the Aaron Wan-Bissaka deal but the report suggests an offer to Newcastle will be made imminently.
The 21-year-old midfielder has only made 10 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, but is wanted by Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, as the Norwegian attempts to revamp his squad. The report does not clarify how much the bid will be but the Englishman is valued at £6.3million by Transfermarkt.
Newcastle are also bracing themselves for an incoming bid from Spanish club Valencia for Ayoze Perez, according to a report in the Sun. Their report claims the attacker wants to return to his homeland after five years on Tyneside.
A separate Sun report claimed there could be a player exodus at St James’ Park, with several players declaring their interest to leave. Whoever replaces Benitez could well have a big challenge on his hands, as there may not be many experienced first-team players left by the time they are employed.