Newcastle among clubs monitoring Rico Lewis as Man City star eyes exit

Newcastle United are among a host of Premier League clubs monitoring the situation of Manchester City defender Rico Lewis, who is considering his future at the Etihad Stadium. The 21-year-old, who signed a new long-term contract last year, has started just three Premier League games this season and is concerned his lack of minutes could impact his international ambitions, according to a report from TEAMtalk.

The England Under-21 international, who can play at full-back or in midfield, is understood to be weighing up a move away from the Premier League champions in search of regular first-team football. Sources suggest Manchester City would not block a move if the player decides he needs to leave to further his career.

According to the report, Newcastle United, Everton, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brentford, Brighton and Sunderland are all monitoring the situation. Lewis is said to be keen to prove his versatility and believes he can operate effectively in multiple positions.

The 21-year-old, who came through City's academy, has found consistent game time hard to come by in a star-studded squad, making only three league starts this campaign. His lack of minutes is reportedly a growing concern for the player, who is an England Under-21 international with ambitions to break into the senior national team setup. A move away from the Etihad this summer is now considered a serious possibility.