Eddie Howe speaks out on Newcastle’s pursuit of Guehi as saga continues

Eddie Howe has said Newcastle cannot do anything that is against the “long-term interests” of the football club as they continue their pursuit of Marc Guehi.

The Magpies opened the new season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over newly promoted Southampton at St James’ Park.

Newcastle were forced to play with ten men for around an hour in the first half after Fabian Schar’s red card, but Joelinton scored the only goal of the game in the 45th minute as Howe’s side held on.

Howe on Guehi Chase

It has been a quiet summer for Newcastle so far, but the final weeks of the transfer window could see some activity as they look to strengthen their squad to qualify for European football.

It’s no secret the Magpies are looking to strengthen their defence and they have identified Crystal Palace star Guehi as their top target.

However, their efforts have so far proven unsuccessful and Palace have had four separate bids rejected, with the clubs still unable to reach an agreement.

Palace chairman Steve Parish has spoken of paying ‘superstar’ money to sign the England international, with the club valuing him at around £65-£70million.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle are prepared to match the valuation or whether Palace are prepared to drop slightly.

After the Southampton game, Howe was asked about the 24-year-old and he said Newcastle could make a difference in the player market, but the conditions would have to be right.

“Of course we are looking at the transfer market. We still have some time and we will see what we can do,” he told reporters.

More stories / Latest news

“Can we do something in the market? Possibly, but the circumstances have to be right for us. As I have said all along, we cannot do anything that is against the long-term interest of the football club, so we will try to make the right decision.”

Newcastle are also looking for a right winger and are said to be interested in Chelsea’s Madueke, but they reportedly need to sell Miguel Almiron before they can start looking for potential suitors.