Middlesbrough have set a £30million valuation on star striker Will Lankshear as Newcastle United explore a potential deal. The 21-year-old, who has scored 13 goals in 13 Championship games this season, is tied to a long-term contract at the Riverside Stadium until 2031, making a January move unlikely.
The club remain relaxed about the forward's long-term future, with his immediate focus on maintaining the form that has propelled Boro to second place in the league table on 29 points. Newcastle would have to meet the substantial £30m figure to prise Lankshear away from Teesside.
Valuation and Newcastle's interest
Lankshear's price tag has tripled from the initial £10m fee that brought him from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer. His prolific start, contributing heavily to the team's 30 goals scored this campaign, has seen his value increase weekly. Newcastle are hoping to bolster their attacking options in the coming windows and have scouts monitoring the situation. However, Middlesbrough have no intention of selling a key player in the middle of a promotion push, with their next Championship fixture at home to Bristol City on 21 November.
Future prospects and England watch
Beyond club interest, Lankshear's performances have put him on the radar of the England setup. His youth and goal-scoring prowess suggest a significant future at the highest level. This recognition comes as his former Sunderland teammate Jobe Bellingham, now at Borussia Dortmund, earns a first senior England call-up.
Middlesbrough's strong league position, built on a recent run of two wins, two draws and one loss from their last five games, shows Lankshear's importance. The club's stance is clear: they value their top scorer at £30m and are prepared to keep him as they aim for automatic promotion. His contract runs for another five years, securing his services for the foreseeable future.
More detail at Football Insider
