OPINION
With both Sean Longstaff and Isaac Hayden looking set to stay Newcastle United midfield, Steve Bruce seems to have a solid midfield to choose from next season.
The two standout Magpies midfield maestros stood firm in the last campaign and have been two bright sparks in the heart of Newcastle’s side during pre-season under their new manager.
With Jonjo Shelvey looking like he is set to anchor the midfield if friendlies are anything to go by, it would seem strange that Bruce wants to strengthen his midfield options at St James’ Park.
Newcastle have been reported by Estadio Deportivo to be in the hunt alongside Getafe, St Etienne, and an unnamed German club to sign Sevilla midfielder Ibrahim Amadou before Thursday’s deadline.
Despite their interest, the Magpies seem to be set for a blow in their reported pursuit of the versatile midfielder who can also play in defence as Football Insider have reported that Premier League rivals Norwich City have agreed a deal and planned a medical for Amadou ahead of a summer move.
The Canaries appear to have moved quickly to secure the defensive enforcer and that looks to have blown Newcastle out of the water in regards to a potential move to the North East.
The 26-year-old failed to make much of an impact at Sevilla last season, only managing to make seven starts in La Liga and adding 10 substitute appearances on top of that.
Amadou managed to average 1.6 tackles and 1.4 clearances in each game last season but poorly averaged 0.6 interceptions and o.2 blocks [WhoScored].
Those stats only prove his lack of defensive strength despite being able to play in both midfield and defence, and Newcastle will surely be breathing a sigh of relief after Norwich look set to beat them to his signature.
