Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have entered the race for the signature of Aston Villa mainstay John McGinn, amidst interest from rivals Everton.

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Newcastle United are interested in acquiring the services of Aston Villa skipper John McGinn as Eddie Howe looks to reinforce his midfield ahead of the new season. He wants a reliable figure in the centre of the park, and the Scottish international is a perfect fit for his team.

After making a name for himself while playing for Scottish club Hibernian FC, McGinn made the move to Birmingham in the summer of 2018, and he hasn’t looked back since. While he prefers playing as a central midfielder, he is equally effective out wide on the flanks.

He is one of the first names on their team sheet under Unai Emery. The 30-year-old has been a consistent performer for them, and his work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Reports suggest he could be on the move this summer in search of a new challenge.

While he still has two years left on his deal, rival clubs are looking to prise him away from Villa Park. Meanwhile, Emery doesn’t seem to have any intentions of letting him leave. However, things might not be in the control of the manager if McGinn ends up pushing for a move away.

Everton are keen on adding him to their squad. The Toffees did knock on Villa’s door, but their interest was rebuffed. While the Merseyside club are keeping a close eye on his situation, they now have significant competition for his signature as Newcastle United have entered the race for his signature.

Newcastle United are keen on signing McGinn

The Magpies are trying their best to ensure Alexander Isak continues at the club. While they are looking for alternatives, their priority is to hold onto the Swedish international. Eddie Howe is also keen on adding more quality and depth to his midfield.

He wants to ensure he has at least six top-quality options in midfield. Following the departure of Sean Longstaff and the injury to Joe Willock, signing a new midfielder is a priority for them. McGinn is quite high on Newcastle’s wishlist, and they have started working towards a potential transfer.

While Emery isn’t keen on letting him go, the player could be interested in making a switch to the Tyneside club, who will be competing in the Champions League. His reliability and versatility make him the perfect fit for Howe’s team. However, a potential transfer certainly won’t be that straightforward.