EDDIE HOWE is optimistic Sean Longstaff will sign a new contract with Newcastle United in the next few days.

Longstaff's current deal is due to expire next month, and discussions over a new contract have dragged on throughout the whole of the second half of the season.

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Howe wants to keep the homegrown midfielder as part of his squad, with Longstaff having underlined his worth at the weekend as he starred in Newcastle's season-ending win at Burnley.

The 24-year-old has shown no desire to leave his hometown team, although his representatives are understood to have been pushing for the best possible deal.

Howe is hoping for a swift breakthrough now the season has ended, with Longstaff's current contractual situation meaning he is able to speak to alternative prospective employers if he wants to.

Howe said: "Has he signed his contract yet? No. But I anticipate that hopefully we can come to a successful conclusion soon on that one."