Player Newcastle want to sign now officially has a release clause after relegation confirmed with 3-1 defeat

Newcastle are not in action until Monday night – but there was still a development of interest to the Magpies on Sunday.

Eddie Howe takes his Newcastle side to Leicester for Monday Night Football on Sky Sports – where the Magpies could go level on points with Chelsea in the event of victory.

However, there is reason for Newcastle to celebrate before a ball has even been kicked, after a target for Paul Mitchell – Director of Football at St James’ Park – became much easier to sign.

Aaron Ramsdale now has release clause after Tottenham 3-1 Southampton

Southampton became the quickest side ever to be relegated from the Premier League after suffering a 3-1 defeat at Tottenham on Sunday, having accumulated just ten points from 31 games this season.

As a result, a few players at the St Mary’s Stadium have now seen relegation release clauses become active, including Aaron Ramsdale.

TBR Football understand Newcastle are keen to sign Ramsdale as Howe aims to find a replacement for Nick Pope – who turns 33 this month and will also have just 12 months left on his contract in June.

It is understood the England international had a £25m release clause written into his contract which would become active should Southampton be relegated – which has now officially happened after the defeat in north London.

Personal terms are unlikely to be an issue for Newcastle either, with Ramsdale understood to be keen on staying in the Premier League to maintain his England career on the international scene.

Newcastle could face competition from Leeds and others

Newcastle are not the only side keen to sign the Southampton No.30 this summer.

TBR Football have been told Leeds also want Ramsdale – amid serious doubts over Illan Meslier at Elland Road – although a move would depend on whether the Whites can win promotion.

Chelsea and Bournemouth are also understood to be admirers of 26-year-old, so it feels highly unlikely he will remain at Southampton after the Saints were relegated to the Championship.

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