‘If Eddie Howe believes he’s the right player, I believe it’ - Jose Enrique on Newcastle United target

Newcastle United should buy Leeds winger Jack Harrison if he is the player Eddie Howe wants to sign. That is the view of former Magpies defender Jose Enrique, who believes the Toon boss has earned the right to call the shots at St James’ Park.

Uncertainty remains over summer recruitment as United are still trying to iron out a deal with Brighton to bring Dan Ashworth to the club prematurely. In January, a transfer committee of Howe, co-owners Amanda Staveley, Mehrdad Ghodoussi and head of recruitment Steve Nickson oversaw incomings and the same procedure is in place again until Ashworth’s arrival.

Recent reports have linked Newcastle with a move for Whites wideman Harrison despite the Yorkshire club retaining their place in the Premier League. A fee in the region of £25million has been mooted for the 25-year-old, who signed permanently from Manchester City after three years on loan at Leeds last summer.

Enrique insists Newcastle should sign Harrison - who bagged a 94th-minute winner against Brentford on the final day - if that is the player Howe has touted. Speaking to Genting Casino, he said: “If Eddie believes he’s the right player for Newcastle, I believe it.

“Klopp won the manager of the season but Eddie is right up there with him and if Harrison is a player that he wants, then they should sign him.”