Leeds prodigy has decision to make as Newcastle hover
Published:
Leeds youngster Sam Byram must choose whether he wants to remain at the club under the terms of a new contract, or make a step up to the Premier League with Newcastle.
Media reports suggest the Elland Road club will offer their prized possession a new deal as the Magpies increase their own interest in the 21-year-old right back.
Having entered into the final year of his current contract, Byram is attracting interest from a host of top-flight sides and Steve McClaren’s outfit are believed to be at the head of a queue also containing Aston Villa, Everton and West Ham.
The England U20 international’s popularity has prompted his Yorkshire owners to open new talks in the hope of keeping the defender.
The Whites failed to secure an extension on Byram’s contract last summer, when offering him reduced terms but on a lengthy deal. Now there’s a real danger of the youngster walking away on a free.
Having broken into the club’s first team in 2012, Byram has become an Elland Road regular and is the current longest-serving player despite his tender years.
Newcastle’s need for another right-back is obvious, with only Dutch international Daryl Janmaat as the natural option in that position and fill-in players like Massadio Haidara swapping flanks to cover him.
Signing Byram, however, would add a dose of versatility to their squad, with the Leeds man able to play further up the right wing as well as full-back and in fact started as part of a front three for Uwe Rosler against Burnley at the weekend.
Following their 2-2 draw with Southampton on the opening day, the Magpies move onto an away game against Swansea, with Ladbrokes making McClaren’s men 16/5 for victory.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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