The deal Steve Bruce hopes he can 'get over the line' at Newcastle United

The midfielder is out of contract at the end of the month, he has “verbally agreed” a short-term extension so he can complete the season.

Talks over a new deal, however, have been deadlocked for months, and Longstaff is wanted by Udinese.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s home game against Sheffield United, head coach Bruce said: “We hope that we can resolve something. There’s still dialogue between the respective parties. We want him to stay. We've given him a really good offer. Let’s hope we can get it over the line. We have offered him a fantastic deal in my opinion."

Longstaff is set to return to training next week. Bruce said: “Unfortunately, after the first couple of days, he’s picked up a thigh injury. We expect him to be in and around it in the next three or four days.”