According to the Chronicle, West Bromwich Albion and Middlesbrough have joined Derby County in seeking a move for Newcastle United midfielder Matty Longstaff.
The 21-year-old midfielder has struggled for game-time at Newcastle.
A report by Football Insider last month claimed Longstaff would tell Newcastle of his desire to leave this summer in search of regular first-team football.
Longstaff reportedly signed a new contract last summer with the promise of breaking into the side. However, he featured only a handful of times over the past 12 months.
The Chronicle now say the Magpies have agreed to loan him out.
MORE DERBY STORIES
Longstaff has several suitors. Anderlecht, Norwich City, West Brom and Middlesbrough are among them while Derby’s interest was covered earlier this month.
The Rams head into the new season with only 14 senior players contracted to the club beyond June. Manager Wayne Rooney has a big rebuild job on his hands.
The defence needs bulking up while Derby are also light upfront.
The midfield is arguably the strongest area of the squad. Max Bird, Graeme Shinnie, Jason Knight and the injured Krystian Bielik are all strong in the middle of the park.
Why Derby may want Matty Longstaff:
A lack of creativity from deep, however, was a major issue last season.
Rooney may also look to bring in more creativity in central midfield. Longstaff’s energetic and front foot style could be a welcome addition at Pride Park.
Derby are currently under an embargo and awaiting EFL charges. Loans may be the way forward right now, though Longstaff certainly appears high in demand.
Also see: Club reportedly seek free transfer deal for Derby ace three years after £5m sale
Also see: Player Derby bid £3m for back in 2017 now joins league rivals on free transfer