Newcastle United is nearing a deal to sign Ajax midfielder Sean Steur as they seek a replacement for Sandro Tonali. The club has reportedly agreed to a £23 million transfer for the 18-year-old, who made a significant impact in the previous season, becoming a regular in Ajax's midfield.

Steur's Rising Profile

Steur, a Dutch youth international, is noted for his versatility, capable of playing both as a number six and a number eight. Insiders from Ajax's academy regard him as their most promising talent since Frenkie de Jong, who now plays for Barcelona. His potential has attracted interest from several top clubs, with some considering him a superior option compared to AZ Alkmaar's Kees Smit, who is valued at around £60 million and has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

Competition for Steur

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool have all shown interest in Steur over the past year. However, Newcastle has managed to gain the upper hand, particularly after successfully hijacking Liverpool's move for Victor Munoz last month. Eintracht Frankfurt also made a serious attempt to sign him earlier this year. With sporting director Ross Wilson at the helm, Newcastle is keen on securing another young talent this summer, following the arrivals of 20-year-old winger Bazoumana Toure and goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen.

Steur made his debut for Ajax during the 2024/25 season under coach Francesco Farioli and began the 2025/26 season with Jong Ajax. Following the dismissal of Johnny Heitinga in November, Fred Grim provided Steur with a chance in the first team, where he continued to feature prominently even after the appointment of Oscar Garcia. The 6ft tall, two-footed playmaker has accumulated 26 appearances for Ajax's first team, scoring one goal and providing two assists, including three appearances in the Champions League. With his impressive statistics and potential, Newcastle may have secured one of the standout signings of the summer transfer window.