'Got a big part to play': Eddie Howe drops hint on future of Sean Longstaff amid exit speculation

Leeds United and Everton are said to be keen to snap up Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United this summer.

It's expected that a deal in the region of £10 million could be agreed for the academy graduate who has experienced a rollercoaster ride at his boyhood club.

Treated poorly by former boss Steve Bruce, Longstaff contemplated walking away from Newcastle, but when Eddie Howe arrived, things took a huge upturn for the midfielder.

Eddie Howe was impressed with Longstaff's determination and often had him in his starting XI, but now Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton have those position sewn up and Joe Willock and even Lewis Miley seem to be ahead of Longstaff in the pecking order, this summer could be a big one for the 27-year-old.

Sean Longstaff signed a contract extension to 2026

Sean Longstaff recently signed a contract extension at Newcastle, but it is believed that the deal was set up so that Newcastle could command a fee when he moves on at the end of the season.

Longstaff asked to remain at the club in January when rumours of a sale kicked up as he wanted to try and lift a trophy with the club before he left, which he has now done.

So the question remains, will Longstaff stay or go in the summer, and while all signs point towards an exit, Eddie Howe has left the door open for him to stay.

We expect Sean Longstaff will leave this summer

Speaking to the media on Friday ahead of today's clash with Brighton, Eddie Howe said Longstaff's future is in his own hands, and while he could stay, he won't stand in his way should he want to leave.

"No [we won't stand in his way], but I think we'll work with Sean on that, I think he's got our utmost respect. He's been a brilliant servant to the football club.

"What I meant by that [he'll dictate his future] was he has a contract with the football club.

"So, in some senses, he can dictate what happens with his future. Let's wait and see on that. He's still a very valued member of the squad. He's got a big part to play."

Again, Eddie Howe is hardly going to give a definitive answer one way or another, especially while the season is going on, but we'd be amazed if Longstaff is part of next season's squad.