​BBC Radio Newcastle’s Matthew Raisbeck has described the prospective signing of 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur as “another sign that Newcastle’s approach to recruitment is shifting and changing.” The potential deal for Steur comes as the Magpies continue to reinvest in the squad following midfielder Sandro Tonali’s move to Tottenham for up to £100 million.
“This is a transfer that has come out of the blue really,” Raisbeck said. “He isn’t a name that has been talked about much in connection with Newcastle. There is a lot of chatter and speculation around targets, some of whom are well known, while others are less so. Like the Bazoumana Toure link last week, this one seems to have emerged publicly at a point when it’s close to completion.”
Raisbeck added that, given Newcastle’s recent struggles in the transfer market, the development will be welcomed by both supporters and the club. Steur may be young, but he already has first-team experience with Ajax after progressing through their academy. He has established himself in their midfield and is also a Dutch under-19 international, with some Champions League exposure from last season.
“It’s a lot of money for an 18-year-old, but it appears to be another indicator that Newcastle’s recruitment strategy is evolving. They have already brought in a young goalkeeper and a young winger, and now a young midfielder,” Raisbeck observed. “The club seems to be prioritising promising young talent with substantial room for growth and development, with the potential for significant resale value if they reach their potential.”
You can listen to the full discussion below or on BBC Sounds for more detail and better SEO.