Premier League boss admits they are 'nowhere near a deal' for Newcastle United winger despite interest

Newcastle United winger Ryan Fraser has certainly rubbed many up the wrong way.

Toon boss Eddie Howe is no exception to that with the Scotsman really rubbing him up the wrong way on multiple occasions.

During Howe's tenure at Bournemouth, Fraser refused to sign a small contract extension so he could play out the rest of the season following the Premier League's postponement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His reasoning was that he didn't want to risk injury, Bournemouth were relegated and Howe said that he would "never play for them again".

Ryan Fraser frozen out at Newcastle United

Following his departure from Bournemouth, Fraser signed for the Magpies on a five-year deal making his debut in a 1-0 win over Blackburn Rovers in the Carabao Cup.

When Howe was appointed, Fraser did initially get more playing time but in the 2022/23 season his playing time was reduced and he eventually went on to train with the under-21's side.

When asked about Fraser, Howe said that he made the decision to concentrate on players who were "committed" to the club and added that he didn't have a future at Newcastle.

A loan spell at Southampton followed with the 30-year-old helping the Saints return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Southampton want Fraser but are nowhere near a deal for him

Fraser was recently spotted at Southampton airport making fans wonder if a deal had been agreed between the two clubs.

But with Fraser's contract up next summer he may be holding out for a free transfer.

Earlier today, football correspondent Alex Crook reported that Saints boss Russell Martin admitted they were "nowhere near a deal" for Fraser.

With the Scotsman's wages one of the highest at Newcastle it could be a case of personal terms that are slowing things down.