Sean Longstaff gives honest answer amid talk of failed Man Utd approach

Sean Longstaff insists he remains fully focused on the season ahead with Newcastle after admitting he was flattered to see his name linked with a move to Manchester United this summer.

Despite only having eight Premier League appearances to his name, Longstaff is believed to be a top target for United, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to add exciting young players to his squad.

An improved offer of around £25m plus add-ons is said to be on the table, with Newcastle having rejected the Red Devils’ initial approach. It has since been claimed that Newcastle are holding out for double that after seeing the price that United paid Crystal Palace for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Now the 21-year-old has addressed the reports that United made a push to sign him this summer and claims his only focus remains with the Magpies.

“Obviously, I’m still young and getting used to all that side of it. There’s nothing you can do,” Longstaff told the Manchester Evening News.

“It’s in the hands of other people now. Like I said before, I’m fully focused on being back fit for the start of the Premier League season.

“To have your name mentioned with those top clubs is obviously great, but, for me, it’s about working as hard as I can for Newcastle and getting back.

“I’m trying to focus on football. The stuff off the pitch isn’t what you play for, you can get too caught up in it.”

Longstaff’s stance comes after Newcastle appeared to reject all suggestions that Longstaff could leave this summer over the weekend.

“The message we want to put out is that he is not for sale,” Ashley told the Daily Mail. “If you’ve got one like Sean – keep him.”

Manchester United, meanwhile, could be forced to turn to a Plan B after efforts to prise Paulo Dybala from Juventus appeared to hit the skids.

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