Everton manager Rafael Benitez reportedly targeting Newcastle United duo Sean Longstaff and Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of the January transfer window.
The Blues were rumoured to be interested in the players this summer. But moves failed to materialise and both remained at Newcastle. Longstaff is more likely to arrive in Merseyside than the French winger. He has featured in every minute of Premier League action so far this season. Netting two goals and providing three assists in seven outings.
Rafael Benitez, who arrived at Goodison Park in the summer, recently announced that he plans to enter the transfer market. Following the departure of top earner James Rodriguez. And he is said to be interested in a raid on his former club.
Saint-Maximin is already attracting attention from across the Premier League including Liverpool. And will demand a hefty fee. PSG are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Everton forward Richarlison. Saint-Maximin can be the replacement for the Brazilian forward.
Everton preparing for Longstaff and Tom Davies swap deal?
While Longstaff is out of contract at the end of the season. And Newcastle are running out of time to give him an extension. A swap involving Tom Davies is also a real possibility and the most likely outcome.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce was keen to play down rumours of a Saint-Maximin departure. Saying: “I haven’t even had that conversation and I don’t want to have that conversation, as you can imagine. Look, we don’t want to lose our best players at all. For now, I’m not going to have that conversation with anybody because we want to keep our best players.”
Saint-Maximin was signed at Newcastle after Benitez’s exit, so this wouldn’t be a reunion. Benitez left after seeing them win promotion and consolidate their top-flight status. He has led the Toffees to collect 14 points from their opening seven Premier League games since arriving back on English shores.
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