Stoke and Middlesbrough vying for Matt Ritchie
According to the 'Daily Mail', Stoke City, Middlesbrough and Derby County are vying for Newcastle United midfielder Matt Ritchie's signature.
Newcastle winger Matt Ritchie could be snapped up by a Championship side, as Rafa Benitez is unable to guarantee the winger a starting role.
Ritchie is a firm fan favourite, but the Championship sides are prepared to offer a healthy sum to sweeten the deal. Initial talks are said to have taken place, with an offer of around £15million on the table.
Ritchie has provided a creative influence on the wing this season, but Benitez has been unable to guarantee the 28-year-old more that 25 matches next season.
If Ritchie is hoping to play consistently, he could be persuaded to drop down a division in order to do so.
Bournemouth's Eddie Howe is also interested in bringing his former player back to the club.