Premier League duo circling for Newcastle star Townsend

Oli Fisher
Andros Townsend: Signing for Palace

Andros Townsend: Signing for Palace

West Ham United and Southampton are reported to be interested in securing the services of Andros Townsend from Newcastle United.

The Premier League pair are interested in the winger, however, this depends on whether the Toon are relegated, as Townsend has a release clause in his contract that allows him to leave the club.

The fee is apparently set at £8million subject to the relegation, and having signed from Spurs in January for £12million it is no surprise to see clubs circling for a potential bargain.

The England international has four goals this campaign in the Premier League from 14 games, and has been a bright spot in an otherwise poor season for the Magpies. He scored a sensational free-kick last game against Crystal Palace, giving the Tynesiders hope that they can avoid the drop.

In their report, the Telegraph state that West Ham have been interested in the former QPR loanee in each of the last two transfer windows but knew a deal with fierce rivals Tottenham was unlikely, so they are expected to make a more determined assault this time round.

Both the Hammers and the Saints are competing for a Europa League spot, and although Townsend has hinted he is happy on Tyneside, he may have no say in his future at the club would have to trim wages for life in the second tier, including his reported £55k-a-week.

The 24-year-old revealed he was unhappy with his previous situation at Spurs in a January interview with The Sun.

“Growing up a Spurs fans and being at the club since the age of eight, I obviously planned to spend most of my career at Spurs.

“So of course it was disappointing. I would have liked a better exit. But now I just have to move forward and try to build a career here.”

Of course, the manager at that time was Steve McClaren, and the ex-England boss was on of the reasons he joined the club, Townsend revealed.

“It is important for me to have a manager that believes in my abilities, knows the way I play inside out and knows what I can bring to the team.

“I’ve had a few great chats with Steve and I think he knows what I can do.”