Manchester United are preparing to make an opening offer for Newcastle's Sean Longstaff, with the Magpies in turn interested in the imminently out-of-contract Red Devils midfielder Juan Mata.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a massive task on his hands this summer as he looks to rebuild the United squad, and the early indications show that the Norwegian is targeting younger, British players - given United's interest in Swansea's 21-year-old winger Daniel James.
Longstaff, also 21, emerged as a budding star for the Magpies last season, despite only making 12 appearances for the club in all competitions due to an ankle injury. However, his passing ability, composure on the ball and tackling ability seem to have impressed Solskjaer enough to begin transfer proceedings with a bid (of an unspecified amount) expected in the next 48 hours, according to the Telegraph.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez would be reluctant to let Longstaff, a Newcastle academy product, leave the club, but there are still question marks over the Spaniard's future at St James' Park, with no news of a contract extension despite Benitez's contract expiring at the end of June.
In addition, Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has shown a willingness - some would say eagerness - to sell Toon players for big profits over the years, whilst stalling on making any suitable bids for incoming players to the club.
Manchester United interest in Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff is real. Solskjaer wants ideally to form a midfield three of Declan Rice, Scott Mctominay & Sean Longstaff. Pogba is 90% gone this summer. #mufc
— Simon Smith (@SimonSmithBBC) May 17, 2019
Hence why it makes sense that Newcastle are being linked with a move for Juan Mata, who is expected to leave Old Trafford this summer.
Mata, 31, previously worked with Benitez at Chelsea, and according to the Sun, Benitez is keen on bringing his compatriot to St James' Park. However, Newcastle would face competition from Mata's former club Valencia and even Barcelona for his signature.
The futures of Longstaff and, in some capacity, Mata are linked to what happens with Benitez at Newcastle.
If the Spaniard does sign a new contract, he would likely insist that promising young players like Longstaff are kept, unless presented with an exceptional offer. However, if Benitez does move on to pastures new, Magpies owner Mike Ashley may face less resistance in selling Longstaff to United for a quick profit.
Source: 90min