Newcastle in treble Prem tussle as race hots up for versatile midfielder

Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Sheffield United are in the race to sign Huddersfield midfielder Lewis O’Brien, a report has claimed.

Football Insider claims that a chance to sign the 22-year-old has opened up after the trio spent a lengthy period of time keeping tabs on his progress.

Indeed, the Terriers are now willing to sell the midfielder. And while the West Yorkshire club have insisted that there is a ‘right price’ for his exit, their decision has nonetheless prompted interest.

The source adds that while O’Brien’s summer departure is likely, a January deal is also ‘possible’.

But the interest from Newcastle, the Eagles and the Blades is in its infancy at the moment.

O’Brien, who mostly operates as a midfielder, can also play higher up the pitch and affect the attack. As such, his versatility has made him a key part of the Huddersfield team.

He has made 19 outings in all competitions, including 16 in the Championship. Indeed, after missing out for the first four league games, he has appeared in every match since.

But the midfielder had previously made waves at Huddersfield’s academy ranks. He won the player of the season prize twice before entering the first-team set-up.

And while Football Insider notes that he is one of Huddersfield’s ‘prize’ assets, they are willing to let him go.

He has entered the final two years of his contract. As such, a summer sale this year would be the best option if the player is unwilling to stay.

Newcastle in race for striker

Meanwhile, reports elsewhere claim that the Magpies are keen on Montpellier striker Andy Delort.

The 29-year-old was a near £3m buy for Wigan in 2014, but he did not last long with Latics.

Wolves are also keen on the Algeria international, who failed to score in 11 appearances and was quickly shipped out on loan to Tours in France.

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