Another snub for Lewis Hall as Newcastle United make key transfer decision

Newcastle United will target a new left-back this summer despite signing Lewis Hall, according to reports.

The Magpies added Hall to their ranks last summer on loan with an obligation-to-buy clause worth around £28million. Details regarding what would trigger that deal are vague but are understood to be based on where Newcastle finish this season.

Supporters have been left confused about the youngster’s situation as he has only played 104 Premier League minutes since arriving. That is despite Hall suffering no injury setbacks and being in the matchday squad for most of the season.

The 19-year-old was highly rated by Chelsea but is yet to be given a chance to shine on Tyneside. His hopes of breaking into Eddie Howe’s team could diminish further as Football Insider claim Newcastle are eyeing up a new left-back.

Dan Burn has been Howe’s preferred option following his arrival from Brighton two years ago. A centre-back by trade, the Blyth-born defender deputised for an injured Matt Targett at the beginning of last season and remained in the team since.

Burn was part of the line-up that secured a Champions League finish in 2022-23 but his place has come under recent pressure. The 31-year-old has struggled to deal with pacy wingers but looked more assured against Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman Pedro Neto on Saturday.

Tino Livramento has excelled when given the chance - scoring his first Newcastle goal at the weekend - but his natural position is right-back. The report claims left-back is a top priority for the Magpies, with Howe set to be handed added authority on transfers now Dan Ashworth has been placed on gardening leave.