Newcastle United fans have been handed a major blow in the January transfer market, with the news that one reported target is unlikely to be secured due to his wage demands.
The Chronicle suggests that Newcastle’s pursuit of Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is likely to come to a premature and unsuccessful end, with the England international costing far too much in wages for the Tyneside outfit.
Sturridge is extremely likely to leave Anfield this month after falling behind Roberto Firmino and Dominic Solanke in the club’s pecking order, especially as he chases first-team football in an attempt to push his way into England’s World Cup squad.
Newcastle, along with a number of other fellow Premier League sides, have long been attributed with interest in Sturridge but the striker’s wages, reportedly in the region of £120k-a-week, are far too much for the club.
The Magpies would have to shatter their current wage structure to bring the 28-year-old to St. James’ Park and that seems extremely unlikely to happen, particularly with the club remaining under the tenure of Mike Ashley.
That situation could improve for Newcastle in 2018, with takeover talks ongoing, but by that stage it’s likely to be too late to secure Sturridge’s services.
