By Kevin Phillips

2nd May, 2022 | 8:24am

Newcastle tipped to complete £30m Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg deal amid 'surprising' claim - Phillips

Kevin Phillips has backed Newcastle to complete a “really good” £30million swoop for Tottenham ace Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg this summer.

The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 26-year-old is “exactly what Eddie Howe is after” at St James’ Park.

According to The Express (26 April), cash-rich Newcastle are plotting a £30million move for Hojbjerg this summer as Howe looks to bolster his midfield.

The Denmark international has been a regular under three Spurs managers since joining the London side in a reported £15million move in 2020.

Phillips claimed he has been “really surprised” by the midfielder’s talents after initially writing the 26-year-old off.

“I think he’s a good player,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.

“He really surprised me when he came from Southampton to Tottenham. I always thought he was a bit suspect, but he’s won me round ever since.

“He just knows what he’s good at, and he does it really well. He’s a really accomplished player.

“He can sit in front of the back four, mop up, and give it to the ball players. That’s exactly what Eddie Howe is after.

“I think he could turn out to be a really good signing, especially at £30million.”

Football Insider revealed earlier this year (21 February) that Roma are plotting a move for Hojbjerg, with Spurs valuing him at around £25million.

The midfielder, who is out of contract in 2025, has made 44 appearances across all competitions this term.

In other news, Tottenham idol fears uproar from fans after Antonio Conte reveal via Sky.