Newcastle United build on Joelinton contract extension as controversial one-year deal agreed

Mark Gillespie is set to pen a one-year contract at Newcastle United despite not playing for almost three seasons.

The 32-year-old last played for the Magpies on September 30, 2020 in the penalty shoot-out win over Newport County. Chances have been non-existent since then but Gillespie continues to be given one-year extensions.

Not even a crisis between the sticks has allowed the goalkeeper to stake his claim for Eddie Howe. Nick Pope’s shoulder injury ruled him out for most of the campaign, with Martin Dubravka filling the void.

Loris Karius was also called upon when Dubravka missed February’s defeat to Arsenal. The Daily Mail are now reporting that Newcastle - who could look to sign a first-choice keeper this summer - will keep Gillespie for another season.

He is understood to be a popular figure in the dressing room and among the backroom staff. As a lifelong Newcastle fan, having previously played for the club as an academy player, he is also content to remain as fourth-choice goalie rather than push for a starting role.

However, the move has polarised Toon fans on social media. One fan urged Newcastle chiefs to move Gillespie and Paul Dummett on ahead of the summer window.

“This must not happen as we need to progress,” the social media post read. “Yes, he has been a good servant, but it’s time for both Newcastle, Gillespie and Dummett to part ways.”

Another supporter agreed: “Sorry but what is the reason Mark Gillespie gets a one-year extension because I see absolutely no reason to?”

But one fan understood the call, citing FFP/PSR concerns that continue to grip the decision-making at St James’ Park. Their post read: “Do you understand how football works? We’re not in a financial position due to all the stuff thrown at us to have a squad of 25 first-team starters.”