Howe hope extinguished as experienced defender won’t ‘ruin’ career with January Newcastle switch
Burnley defender Ben Mee has ended any speculation that he might join the Newcastle United revolution during the January transfer window.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe is desperately trying to solve his defensive crisis before the window closes. The Tynesiders have already shipped 43 top-flight goals this term. And they could not keep a clean sheet on Saturday as Watford’s Joao Pedro bagged a late equaliser at St James’ Park.
It denied the north-east outfit what would have been a priceless three points in their quest for survival. The result leaves them deep in the mire and facing a struggle to avoid the drop.
They are 19th in the table and two points from safety. Howe has already brought in Kieran Tripper from Atletico Madrid and Burney striker Chris Wood.
And it was thought the ex-Clarets manager was looking to raid the Turf Moor outfit once again. Newcastle have been linked with a move for both Mee and James Tarkowski.
However, it emerged last month that the north-west outfit have been working on a new deal to keep Mee at the club. And now the 32-year-old has made it clear that he will not be wearing black and white during 2021-2022.
“I want to get the club out of this situation, he told The Athletic. “That’s the focus. I won’t be going anywhere for now.
“I saw some mad links to Newcastle; imagine going there and ruining the 10 years I’ve had here, that’s not the reputation I want.
“I want to keep this club in the Premier League and play for Burnley for a long time.”
Newcastle targeting Serie A star
Links to Newcastle this month must be taken with a pinch of salt. Howe himself has laughed off many names that have been mentioned as potential targets.
But it was reported on Saturday that the St James’ Park outfit had ‘agreed personal terms’ with Atalanta star Robin Gosens. The Germany left-back can also play in midfield.
He scored 11 goals and registered six assists in 32 league appearances last season.
Manchester City have been heavily linked with the former Heracles Almelo ace. But the latest report suggests Newcastle are ahead of Pep Guardiola’s side in the race for his signature.
Goal, citing Sky Italia, claim the Magpies are in advanced talks to sign Gosens. They have agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal with the wide man, which will see him earn £2.9m per season.
READ MORE: Howe slams Newcastle ‘mindset’ after crumbling; Saint-Maximin makes major relegation claim
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