Report: Everton to move for Sean Longstaff in January with Saint Maximin deal unlikely

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Everton manager Rafa Benitez is looking to his former club Newcastle for January additions, but might have to make do with signing just Sean Longstaff for the time being.

That’s according to The Independent, who claim that Benitez wants to bring both Longstaff, and his exciting teammate, Allan Saint-Maximin, to Goodison Park.

Longstaff has started to make his way back into the first-team picture at St James’ Park and actually scored against Watford. He was initially seen as a key player for the future for the Toon, with the club even slapping a £50m valuation on him at one point.

Reports earlier this week had claimed Everton were in a cluster of teams also looking at Saint-Maximin. However, the Magpies are unlikely to sell the Frenchman in January. That is, of course, unless a ludicrous offer comes in.

Everton have made a good start to life under Benitez. His appointment was a controversial one in the summer. However, the Toffees can actually go top of the table should they beat Manchester United this lunchtime.

TBR’s View: Saint-Maximin exciting but Longstaff could be vital for Everton too

Workman-like midfielders have always been important to Rafa Benitez and his teams. So while Saint-Maximin would light up Goodison, don’t underestimate what a player like Longstaff can bring.

Benitez obviously rates him highly too. He’d bring steel, grit, and presence to the midfield. But that’s not to say he’s also good with the ball.

Longstaff’s career halted a bit but he looks to be back on track now. And while he loves it in the Northeast, a reunion with Rafa could well tempt him.