Newcastle United have reportedly scouted Bristol City central midfielder Alex Scott ahead of a potential move this summer.
The Lowdown: Midfielder needed
Newcastle will be looking for a new midfielder this summer, with reports that both Matty Longstaff and Matt Ritchie are expected to leave St. James' Park after their contracts expire.
They have already been linked with moves for the likes of Anton Stach, Conor Gallagher and Gabri Veiga, but a new target has emerged on their shortlist.
The Latest: Scott interest
As per The Daily Mirror, scouts in the North East are 'running checks' on Scott ahead of the next window, while Wolves, AFC Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Crystal Palace are also thought to be interested in his signature.
The report adds that the Tynesiders are 'ready to enter the race' for the Englishman, who is regarded as 'one of the brightest young talents in the country'.
Scott 'fits the profile' of who the Magpies are targeting, as they want to sign players who are ready for the Premier League but also have plenty of room for development.
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The Verdict: Get it done
With Jonjo Shelvey being allowed to move to Nottingham Forest in the January transfer window as well, Eddie Howe has room for a new midfielder in his squad.
Nicknamed the ‘Guernsey Grealish‘ after his place of birth and likening to the Manchester City and England star, Scott is rated highly, having also been lauded as ‘deadly’ and ‘different class’ by his team-mate Kal Naismith.
At just 19 years of age, he has already played 80 times for Bristol City, scoring five goals and supplying a further seven assists (Transfermarkt), and has the extra versatility to be able to play anywhere across the middle of the park.
Nonetheless, given how in-demand Scott is likely to be this summer, it is imperative that the Magpies get this deal done as soon as possible.