Transfer Centre

Sean Longstaff flattered by Manchester United interest

By Leo Nieboer | 04 August 2019

Sean Longstaff admits that he is flattered by interest from Manchester United but emphasises his desire to remain focused at Newcastle United.

Sean Longstaff has admitted that he was flattered by reported interest from Manchester United but emphasised his desire to remain focused at Newcastle United.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer pinpointed the midfielder as a key transfer target this summer, and the club reportedly held talks with Newcastle last month regarding a potential move.

It is claimed that United launched negotiations with a £20m bid, only to learn that Newcastle valued the 21-year-old at closer to £50m.

Speaking to The Mirror about the circulation of rumours about a transfer to Old Trafford, Longstaff said: "Obviously, I'm still young and getting used to all that side of it. There's nothing you can do.

"It's in the hands of other people now. Like I said before, I'm fully focused on being back fit for the start of the Premier League season.

"To have your name mentioned with those top clubs is obviously great, but, for me, it's about working as hard as I can for Newcastle and getting back. I'm trying to focus on football. The stuff off the pitch isn't what you play for, you can get too caught up in it."

United's interest in Longstaff has appeared to fade this month, with the club focusing on finalising the transfer of Harry Maguire.

Solskjaer's side are also locked in negotiations with Juventus over a swap deal involving Paulo Dybala and Romelu Lukaku and remain intent on signing midfielder Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon before the August 8 deadline.