Newcastle United are close to completing the signing of Sean Steur from Ajax for approximately £23 million. The 18-year-old central midfielder, who is two-footed, has been widely hailed as the Amsterdam club's most promising midfield talent since Frenkie de Jong.
Steur's Rise and Potential Role at Newcastle
While De Jong departed for Barcelona in 2019, Steur, capable of playing as a No 6 or No 8, appears destined for St James' Park. Upon arrival, he is expected to compete with Lewis Miley for the central midfield role vacated by Sandro Tonali, who moved to Tottenham in a deal that could eventually be worth £100m to Newcastle. The club plans to give Steur time to adapt to the Premier League's physical demands.
Howe's Rebuilding Amid Player Exits
Eddie Howe is reshaping his squad following the departures of Tonali and Anthony Gordon, the latter having joined Barcelona in May. Steur began last season in Ajax's youth team before breaking into the first XI, ultimately making 25 senior appearances. The Netherlands Under-19s international quickly gained recognition as one of the Eredivisie's brightest young talents.
Further Transfer Activity
Despite Steur's impending arrival, Newcastle continue to pursue Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi, available from Freiburg for around £51m. The club has also signed winger Bazoumana Touré from Hoffenheim for £43m to replace Gordon.
