Blue-sky thinking puts Rudoni on the radar

NEWCASTLE United have been linked with a surprise transfer swoop for Coventry City’s Jack Rudoni with ongoing speculation surrounding Sean Longstaff’s future.

- By MATTY HEWITT

The Magpies have rejected a third bid from Leeds United for their academy graduate, amid an ongoing issue surrounding UEFA’s Champions League registration.

Craig Hope of the Daily Mail claims the Magpies view the Sky Blues midfielder as a potential replacement for Longstaff, as one of the best players outside of the top flight and it’s a view that is shared by a number of scouts.

Last season, Rudoni scored ten goals and notched 13 assists in 50 games in all competitions. He was an ever-present for Frank Lampard’s side as they reached the Championship playoff final only to be beaten by Sunderland.

Transfermarkt claims the player has a valuation of €12m (£10.4m), but highly ambitious owner Doug King would likely demand almost three times that amount. The Black Cats’ recent sale of Jobe Bellingham - Rudoni boasted a better end product than the Black Cats man last season - has set the precedent after a £27.8m move before add-ons.