Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur, armed with the proceeds from Sandro Tonali’s £100m move to Tottenham Hotspur. Steur, who only signed a new contract with Ajax last summer, made his first-team debut in December and quickly established himself as a regular, starting in the De Klassieker win against Feyenoord a couple of weeks later. The academy graduate’s value is likely to drop when he enters the final year of his contract next summer, putting Ajax in a delicate negotiating position.
According to Opta, Steur ranked first among Eredivisie midfielders aged 18 or younger for chances created (15), total carries (231) and duel success (56.8%). He was second for passes (623), passing accuracy (89.7%), tackles (20), possession won (49) and duels won (46). At 17 years and 333 days, he became the youngest Ajax player to set up a goal in the Champions League.
“Newcastle United close in on Ajax's Sean Steur and target Chelsea's Andrey Santos with Tonali funds.”
Newcastle have also signalled their interest in Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, who is ready to leave Stamford Bridge, according to reports. The Magpies could face a Premier League rival for the Brazilian’s signature as Manchester United are also understood to be keen. Santos, who impressed on loan at Strasbourg last season, has been deemed surplus to requirements by the Blues as they continue their summer overhaul.
With Tonali’s departure freeing up significant funds, Newcastle are moving swiftly to reinforce their midfield. The potential double swoop for Steur and Santos would signal a clear intent to build for the future while maintaining competitiveness in the present. Steur’s arrival would add creative energy and pressing ability to a midfield that already boasts Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton, while Santos offers box-to-box dynamism. The coming days will determine whether Newcastle can secure both targets or face a battle for Santos.