Leeds United have made a significant move in the transfer market, submitting a £12 million bid for Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff, as exclusively reported by The Athletic’s David Ornstein on Tuesday night. The offer, comprising £10 million upfront and £2 million in add-ons, marks Leeds’ United's third attempt to secure the 27-year-old’s signature this summer, with personal terms already agreed between Longstaff and the newly-promoted Premier League side.
Newcastle are yet to respond, but Ornstein notes that this bid is close to Leeds’ financial limit, with alternative targets on their radar if the deal falters. Longstaff, whose contract expires in June 2026, is reportedly keen for Newcastle to receive a fee rather than lose him for free next summer, adding urgency to the negotiations.
🚨 EXCL: Leeds pushing to sign Sean Longstaff from Newcastle. Third offer £10m + £2m yet to receive reply but close to limit before #LUFC pursue other targets. Personal terms in place - 27yo wants #NUFC to earn rather go for free next summer @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/6CJp7h56mg
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 7, 2025
Career So Far
Sean Longstaff, a product of Newcastle’s academy, has amassed 171 Premier League appearances since his debut in the 2018/19 season, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists. His 2023/24 campaign was particularly notable, with six goals and two assists in a dynamic number-eight role, showcasing his defensive tenacity and work rate. However, last season saw his role diminish, starting only eight of 25 Premier League matches as he fell behind Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, and Joelinton in Eddie Howe’s midfield pecking order.
Longstaff’s strengths lie in his duel-winning ability and relentless pressing, though his technical limitations on the ball have been noted. With over 200 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle, his experience at 27 makes him a seasoned option for any top-flight side.
Would He Be a Good Fit for Leeds United?
Longstaff’s potential move to Leeds United appears a smart fit for Daniel Farke’s squad, which craves Premier League nous following promotion. His extensive top-flight experience and defensive work rate would complement Leeds’ technically adept midfielders, offering balance and grit to help them avoid relegation. Described as “underrated” by Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, Longstaff’s ability to cover ground and win duels aligns with Farke’s high-intensity system, though his lack of progressive passing might limit his creative impact.
With personal terms in place and a modest £12 million fee for an academy graduate, Longstaff represents a cost-effective signing for Leeds, potentially becoming a cornerstone in their bid to re-establish themselves in the Premier League.
