Newcastle United hit a deadlock with Ryan Fraser’s transfer to Southampton.
Southampton manager Russell Martin has hinted that they might pull out of the race to sign Ryan Fraser.
Newcastle United are currently negotiating with the winger, who has expressed his desire to leave. Fraser, signed by Steve Bruce on a free transfer in 2020, had a fallout with Eddie Howe and was sent to train with the youth setup before being loaned out last season.
The loan move proved beneficial for all parties, with Fraser helping Southampton secure promotion in the play-off final. There was optimism about a permanent deal, but with less than two weeks before the Championship season starts, the 30-year-old remains at St James’ Park.
Fraser has one year left on his contract, reportedly worth £3 million for the season, posing a financial challenge for Newcastle as Southampton can’t match those wages.
After a pre-season win over Montpellier, Martin admitted he wants Fraser back but might have to consider other options. He said: “I think we’re all hopeful that at some point that will happen. Everyone wants him. Me, the fans, the owners, the players, and the staff.
“He would love to return, and indeed, we would love to keep him here. It’s their (Newcastle’s) prerogative to do what they want with him at the moment, and unfortunately for us, and for Wee Man, it’s not what we want.
“If we can’t agree on a deal with Newcastle, we will have to look at other potential transfers. That’s just the reality of football.”