By Noel Whelan

3rd Aug, 2022 | 2:57pm

Newcastle United told to hijack West Ham's Maxwel Cornet deal after talks update - pundit

Noel Whelan has backed Newcastle to hijack West Ham’s bid for Maxwel Cornet as the Londoners continue to haggle over a potential fee.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 25-year-old could be part of a new breed of “entertainers” at St James’ Park – following in the footsteps of Kevin Keegan’s famous side.

According to The Guardian (2 August), West Ham are close to agreeing a deal to sign Cornet – but face competition from Everton, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest.

The report claims his Burnley contract includes a £17.5million release clause, but the Irons are trying to negotiate a lower fee – which could open the door to other interest.

Cornet, who is under contract at Turf Moor until 2026, scored nine goals in 26 outings last term.

He played as a striker, winger, and even at left-back during the 2021-22 campaign.

Whelan suggested Cornet would get St James’ Park “excited and off their seats” if he were to join.

“You’re looking at reasonable money for a good Premier League player,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.

“That’s what Newcastle have been all about. He’s proven his worth during his season at Burnley – so I’m not surprised to see a few clubs after him.

“You can’t say that Saint-Maximin and the other wide players aren’t going to go through the whole season without injury or suspension. There are a lot of games.

“I think it’d be another exciting, brilliant signing. It’s almost like they’re bringing back the days of The Entertainers.

“They need players who can get fans excited and off their seats.”

In other news, pundit “gobsmacked” by source’s update on Newcastle United’s James Maddison pursuit.