Newcastle United’s 92nd minute win against Brighton in the US Summer Series got a lot of people talking. But not about the win itself. In fact, it’s goalkeeper Nick Pope who has gone viral for his on-pitch antics.

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Report: Newcastle now want to sign ‘phenomenal’ defender, he could cost just £40m

Newcastle United could now try and snap up England youngster Ashley Phillips from Blackburn Rovers when his release clause kicks in next week.

Newcastle will face competition for Ashley Phillips from Tottenham who seem prepared to pay big money to take the youngster from Blackburn before his £2million release clause comes into play.

According to Football League World Spurs have proposed a £9.45million deal, £5million of which will be paid up front in order to beat other clubs to Phillips signature.

Newcastle will wait until Phillips’ release clause becomes active next week

Newcastle are reportedly more than happy to wait for the release clause to come into effect and chance their arm at signing the 18-year-old for just £2million.

The Sun have claimed that the proposed move to Spurs would come with many add-ons that would benefit Blackburn saying: “Blackburn then want £150,000 when Phillips starts at his new club and ten bonuses in all after a set number of appearances, up to 80 games.

So, if Phillips becomes a regular for Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou his fee rises to £6.5millon.”

Phillips has risen through the international set up and now represents England at Under 19 level. Last season he made eight Championship appearances for Blackburn as he continues his development.

It’s no wonder Newcastle and Spurs are interested in Ashley Phillips. He definitely looks like a prospect for the future with former Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray telling the Evening Standard: “He’s 6ft 4in, he’s fast, mobile and can pass it really well. He can use both feet, he’s composed.

“Ash is just a phenomenal young boy. If you were to create a defender in the mold of how you would want one, this kid has got every attribute.”

First-team-ready defenders are a bigger priority than Phillips

The fact that he’s not had a great deal of first-team experience is likely why Newcastle aren’t willing to part with the kind of money Spurs are, but would be willing to fork out £2million.

The clause comes into effect on Friday which means Tottenham have less than a week to ensure their big-money deal is signed, sealed and delivered before other clubs swoop in.

Eddie Howe does need more defensive options, but his priority is first-team ready players and that’s where the money should be going. Our lack of pace at the back was exposed several times in the USA during the Premier League Summer Series and that’s an issue that needs fixing right now, so a move for Phillips may not be a priority.