Newcastle United in contact with Aston Villa for Jacob Ramsey | OneFootball

Newcastle United have entered talks with Aston Villa regarding a potential transfer for midfielder Jacob Ramsey, according to The Athletic.

Newcastle have identified Ramsey as a key target to strengthen their midfield options ahead of the upcoming season.

They previously attempted to sign Ramsey in January 2024, and Magpies manager Eddie Howe remains a fan of him.

Ramsey has experienced a mixed spell at Villa under manager Unai Emery. He made 19 league starts last season and 29 appearances in total.

Despite possessing undeniable ability, injuries have hampered his consistency, with a broken metatarsal and other setbacks totalling around 360 days missed over the last three seasons.

Ramsey has just under 12 months left on his current deal and views Newcastle as his preferred destination if he leaves the Midlands this summer.

While Villa have offered Ramsey a contract extension and are keen to retain him, the player and club appear open to a summer transfer if the right offer materialises.

Villa also see potential financial benefits from a sale, including meeting the Premier League’s financial rules.

Nottingham Forest were keen on a move for Ramsey earlier this summer, but have cooled their interest as they close in on the acquisition of James McAtee.

Villa and Newcastle are expected to continue talks for Ramsey over the coming days as the clubs prepare to face off in their Premier League curtain raiser on Saturday.