Key Points

Sean Longstaff has completed a significant transfer from Newcastle United to Leeds United, signing a four-year deal. The experienced midfielder was attracted by Leeds' clear interest and exciting playing style. He leaves Newcastle after an impressive career, having helped the club win their first trophy in 70 years. Longstaff sees the move as a perfect opportunity for both his professional development and his family's future.

Key Points: Sean Longstaff Joins Leeds from Newcastle in Exciting Transfer

  • Premier League midfielder completes transfer from Newcastle to Leeds
  • Signed four-year contract at Elland Road
  • Helped Newcastle win League Cup last season
  • Made over 200 appearances for boyhood club
3 min read

'I got the feeling Leeds really wanted me': Longstaff on why he left boyhood club Newcastle

Premier League midfielder Sean Longstaff moves to Leeds United after 200+ appearances for boyhood club Newcastle, seeking new challenge

"I think there is something to be said for a team that wants you - Sean Longstaff"

Leeds, July 19

Leeds United made their fifth signing of the summer with the arrival of Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United. The experienced midfielder put pen to paper on a four-year deal at Elland Road.

Longstaff arrives at Leeds having made 25 appearances in the Premier League last campaign for the Magpies, helping them to qualify for the Champions League. He was also a key figure in ending a 70-year trophy drought at St. James' Park by winning the League Cup.

"I remember obviously playing here as a little kid, nine, 10 years old. It is funny where life takes you. So to be back here now with the plans for the club and stuff, I think it is just really exciting to get going. I spoke to [Karl] Darlow straight away, but I have got to meet everyone. It seems like a really good group. I have heard great things.

"I think there is something to be said for a team that wants you and a club that really wants you. I think from the first time I spoke to Leeds, I sort of got a feeling that they really wanted me," said Longstaff to Leeds United's media team.

After enjoying important loan spells early in his career, Longstaff made his debut for Newcastle in a 2018 cup tie with Nottingham Forest and has since gone on to represent his boyhood club over 200 times in all competitions.

The midfielder also admitted that it would have taken a lot for him to leave Newcastle, but believes the recently promoted club provides the right environment for him.

"It just fills you full of confidence and it just makes you want to repay those people. It is a massive, massive football club similar to Newcastle in a lot of ways. It was going to take a lot for us to leave Newcastle to be honest and I wasn't just going to leave to go anywhere so it had to be the right place for me and my family and I think this is a perfect place.

"I got to watch pretty much all the games and see a team that was really exciting to watch, athletic, really good on the ball. Every time I came to play at Leeds the atmosphere was amazing it was always bouncing and a really tough place to play and just looking forward to having that on my side rather than having to play against," he added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Loyalty in football is rare these days. While I understand his reasons, leaving your boyhood club after 200+ appearances must have been tough. Hope he doesn't regret this move when Newcastle face Leeds next season!
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Aman W
Leeds is building a strong team for their Premier League return. As someone who follows EPL closely from India, I think Longstaff will add much-needed experience to their midfield. Smart signing!
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Sarah B
His comments about the atmosphere at Elland Road are spot on! Even watching from India, you can feel the energy through the screen. Hope he thrives in that environment.
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Vikram M
Respectfully disagree with his decision. After helping Newcastle achieve Champions League football, he should have stayed to experience European nights at St. James' Park. Short-term thinking in my opinion.
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Nisha Z
As an Indian working professional, I relate to his career move. Sometimes you need a fresh challenge to grow, even if it means leaving your comfort zone. All the best to him! 🙌

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