From Academy Prospect to Premier League Regular: The Story of Sean Longstaff

From Academy Prospect to Premier League Regular: The Story of Sean Longstaff

Sean Longstaff’s career has taken him from an academy graduate at Newcastle United to a Champions League goalscorer, and now to a fresh start at newly-promoted Leeds United. The 27-year-old midfielder arrives at Elland Road with a wealth of top-flight experience and a point to prove.

Thank you Sean Longstaff ⚫⚪

From your first appearance for Newcastle at anfield. To your very first goal at St James park Vs Burnley. To leading our midfield alongside your brother Matty in a win Vs man utd. Then 2 goals at St James park to take us to our first final in over… pic.twitter.com/kYIF2J4EvN

— Magpie 24/7 (@Magpie24_7) July 18, 2025

Geordie Through and Through

Born in North Shields, Longstaff joined Newcastle’s academy at just nine years old. After loan spells with Kilmarnock and Blackpool, he broke into the Magpies’ first team in 2018. By early 2019 he had his first Premier League goal, quickly becoming a fan favourite for his energy and intelligence in midfield.

Over seven years at St James’ Park, Longstaff made more than 170 Premier League appearances, scoring 16 league goals. His highlight came in 2023–24 when he found the net in a famous Champions League win over Paris Saint-Germain. He also helped end Newcastle’s 70-year trophy drought with their EFL Cup triumph last season.

Longstaff's industrious style and relentless energy resonated with those on Tyneside, and it is always a difficult goodbye when one of your own departs. But, Newcastle's current midfield options rival the best in the league, and Longstaff has had to look elsewhere to get consistent minutes.

Proud to have made 150 appearances for my boyhood club 🖤🤍

An honour to captain the team through to the next round! pic.twitter.com/UFoiK7ZbAG

— Sean Longstaff (@seanlongstaff97) November 1, 2023

A New Chapter at Leeds

On 18 July 2025, Leeds United confirmed Longstaff’s signing on a four-year contract, with a deal worth up to £15 million. He became Daniel Farke’s fifth summer addition as the club looked to strengthen its midfield ahead of a crucial Premier League campaign.

The recruitment plan this summer has focused on power, determination, and Premier League experience, which Longstaff has in abundance.

What a way to start the season 🙌

Incredibly proud to make my @LUFC debut at Elland Road and what an atmosphere 🔵🟡⚪️ pic.twitter.com/72cvbjAkk2

— Sean Longstaff (@seanlongstaff97) August 18, 2025

What Longstaff Brings

The midfielder is known for his tireless running, and box-to-box presence. A classic No. 8, he links defence and attack, presses relentlessly, and arrives late into scoring positions.

Farke has sought more balance in his midfield, and Longstaff provides exactly that. While Leeds have added physicality with taller players across the pitch, the former Newcastle man brings energy and tactical awareness that can knit the team together. His experience in the league, and in continental football will be crucial on and off the pitch for Leeds this season.

Critics of the move argue that Longstaff lacks quality in his final third actions, and that his energy alone is not enough to warrant a starting Premier League midfield slot.

Sean Longstaff has the highest distance covered per 90 average (12.3km) across the last two PL seasons (2500+ mins).

Need more than legs to stay up of course, but clear to see #LUFC’s idea. A signing you’d at least expect to elevate how we can compete. pic.twitter.com/Zy0X3j0HTS

— Jamie Kemp (@jamiemkemp) July 16, 2025

What To Expect From Leeds

Leeds enter the 2025–26 season aiming to avoid a relegation scrap, with newly-promoted sides struggling in recent years. Experts predict they’ll be battling in the lower half, but the summer signings reflect a club determined to battle and hopefully survive. The “Big Lads United” rebuild has been about height, strength, and defensive structure, yet Longstaff’s addition shows a recognition that industry and intelligence are equally important.

He is expected to slot into the midfield, offering Farke the option of a reliable ball-carrier who can protect the back line, recycle possession, and drive play forward.

A Chance To Step Out Of The Newcastle Shadow

For Longstaff, the move to Elland Road is an opportunity to reinvent people's perception of him as a Premier League player. He is looking to prove that he is capable of starting week-in-and-week-out, and Elland Road seems a perfect fit.

Leeds as a club share similarities to Newcastle, and their passionate fanbase recognise, and love players who work hard for the badge - something that Longstaff guarantees.