Newcastle plan for Sean Steur explained – Eddie Howe key to it all

Newcastle United’s move for Ajax youngster Sean Steur is not a flash in the pan, but part of a new look long-term transfer strategy at the club.

Ajax Showtime relay comments from Algemeen Dagblad and journalist Geert Langendorff who talks through the 18-year-old’s impending move to St James Park.

Newcastle move impending

Sean Steur is expected to complete a move to Newcastle at some point this week. Sport Witness covered a report earlier explaining that it was in the final stages and he had flown to England for a medical

The move has somewhat come out of nowhere, with Newcastle moving quickly to secure the youngster when it became apparent, he wanted to leave Ajax. The Dutch side were initially looking to sign him up long-term but, a failure to convince him has seen him move elsewhere.

Steur is a name that, few outside of Ajax may be aware of. But Langendorff reports that Newcastle have had him on their radar for some time.

“The club’s scouts saw the midfielder as an extremely talented footballer,” he reports.

“Given his potential, the asking price of €27m was considered fair. To finance his transfer, Newcastle first had to generate revenue. The sale of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur freed up funds.”

Newcastle’s long-term plan

The Magpies also have a long-term plan in place for the youngster. That was something Ajax could not offer. And it seems that will include immediately competing with Lewis Miley for a spot in Eddie Howe’s plans.

“Tonali’s departure has left a vacancy in Newcastle United’s midfield,” he added.

“Steur is expected to compete with Lewis Miley for the spot – at least in the short term. According to Howe, Steur has all the attributes needed to excel in the Premier League but will be given time to develop physically further.”

Eddie Howe key

According Langendorff, Howe is all in on the deal too. And there is a belief that he will be able to develop the midfielder as the player would want.

“Steur, Johan Manzambi and Bazoumana Touré are evidence of a well-thought-out policy. Newcastle is cutting back on its wage bill – a move necessitated by Financial Fair Play,” he concluded.

“What’s more, the trio have the potential to be sold for a huge sum in the future. And in Howe, they’ve found a manager with the ability to maximise their talent.

“Howe reserves his energy primarily for his favourites, mostly talents he has recruited himself. Anyone who does not appeal to him receives hardly any attention. Steur is clearly regarded by Howe as a gem.”