Newcastle defensive target Aaron Hickey has made it clear that he wishes to remain at Serie A club Bologna next season, dealing a blow to Eddie Howe’s hopes of upgrading the left-best position.
The Scotland international has been strongly tipped to head to St James’ Park this summer, with respected journalist Fabrizio Romano claiming a potential transfer is on the cards.
Hickey, remarkably, has played more minutes than any other teenager in the top five European leagues this season. Indeed, the 19-year-old has notched five goals and an assist in 32 appearances in all competitions for Bologna.
However, speaking about his future, Hickey told the Daily Record he wants to concentrate on playing for Bologna.
He said: “The important thing is to keep my head down and keep improving with a coaching staff that are helping me a lot.
“Now I think about my future only here in Bologna.
“The way we play helps me a lot compared to what I was used to in Scotland. In terms of my progress, I have to keep improving to gain experience and help the team.
“But personally, I think I still need to improve both in the attacking and defensive parts of my game.”
Given Hickey’s comments, it appears Newcastle will have to look elsewhere for a new left-back.
Targett on his back
Matt Targett has done a steady job in the second half of the season after arriving on loan from Newcastle. However, it’s unclear if Howe wants to turn that into a permanent transfer.
It’s also unclear what the future currently holds for Jamal Lewis. The Northern Ireland international hasn’t played since December due in part to a couple of injury issues.
The 24-year-old was brought in from Norwich in a £15million deal in 2020. However, he’s only made 32 appearances for the club in total and there is a chance Newcastle look to move on, if they land a left-back upgrade.
As for Hickey, there is every likelihood that Newcastle scouts will keep monitoring his progress, with a bid made for his…
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