OPINION
Newcastle and Stoke are a way apart on their valuation of Matt Ritchie, according to a reliable journalist.
Keith Downie, who works for Sky Sports, claims that Stoke are only offering £11.5million, whereas Newcastle want a minimum of £15million.
He also added that Crystal Palace want £17million for Andros Townsend, who would be Ritchie’s replacement.
Newcastle & Stoke remain apart on their valuation of Matt Ritchie. Stoke offering £11.5m, NUFC want £15m+.
We’re told Crystal Palace want £17m for Andros Townsend, who would replace Ritchie on Tyneside.— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) July 6, 2018
One thing is certain: Newcastle won’t sell Ritchie for £11.5million, and they don’t need to.
He cost that much two years ago from Bournemouth and this seems like at attempt by Stoke to play off on Newcastle’s financial problems.
It was reported that he was going to be offered an absolutely huge £4million a year in wages to drop down a division and play for Stoke and if the Championship side rate him that highly, then they’ll have to pay a bigger fee than they’re prepared to give the player in salary.
Otherwise, Newcastle are effectively helping pay Ritchie’s wages.
Townsend is an upgrade on Ritchie but Newcastle must ensure they get the prices closer together. A £6.5million shortfall makes no sense if Stoke are desperate to land the 28-year-old in a bid to jump straight back into the Premier League.
This might become a case of who blinks first but Stoke have already overplayed their hand if they’ve offered Ritchie £4million a year and Newcastle must stay strong.
