Newcastle United 'battle' Manchester United for young star as ex-Toon defender urges Steve Bruce to sign Chelsea ace

Interest in the 16-year-old midfielder has been high for over a year now with Chelsea and Arsenal previously credited touted as potential destinations.

Indeed, it is Leicester City who are favourites to secure his signature but according to Football League World, the Magpies and Man United are also pushing.

While Grist is yet to make his senior debut for the Mariners, he did appear on the bench for the club's EFL Trophy clash with Harrogate Town last September.

Meanwhile, Steve Howey believes the signing of Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour would be an excellent signing for Newcastle.

The former Toon defender was responding to reports that claimed Steve Bruce wanted to sign either Tammy Abraham or Gilmour on loan.

He told Transfer Tavern: “What I’ve seen of him, very, very good. I think a lot of clubs will look at him. I think he will be an excellent signing in midfield.”

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