Fresh photo provides Newcastle United injury update as star faces four months out

Joelinton’s partner has shared a photo which could suggest the Brazilian is closing in on his Newcastle United return following his injury.

The 27-year-old has been sidelined since United’s win over Sunderland in the FA Cup in January due to a thigh problem. After undergoing surgery, it’s believed he is in a race to play again this season.

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But Joelinton’s injury isn’t the only thing that has been casting doubt over his season. The Brazilian has faced months of uncertainty amid prolonged contract talks. Eddie Howe said in January it is a “possibility” Joelinton could be sold this summer if a new deal can’t be agreed.

The six-year contract he signed when joining from Hoffenheim in 2019 for a then club-record £40million is due to expire in 2025. However, it looks like midfielder has successfully negotiated a new deal which will see him become one of the top earners at United. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, United have verbally agreed a new four-year contract with the 27-year-old. And this might not be the only good news concerning the Brazilian.

Joelinton’s long-term partner, Thays Gondim, shared a photo of the footballer’s personalised boots to her 26.2k Instagram followers.

The picture shows the Brazilian’s boots are engraved with the name of the mother of his three children, but also provides a hint he’s back on the grass- and could be back-in-action before the end of the season.

When asked about Joelinton’s contract situation previously, Howe was full of praise for the midfielder, conveying just how important he is for Newcastle United’s future.

“That’s always been in my mind as an absolute priority to try and get him to stay at the club long-term," Howe said this year. "I see that as hugely important. “We’re still trying from the club’s side. We’re desperate to keep him, we know his qualities and what he brings, but I don’t think there has been a major update or any major change to the situation. "I don’t know if we’re looking to make a statement, we’re just looking to try and keep a very good player at the football club for everyone’s benefit.

"He always plays with a massive heart, commitment so we’d love to keep him long-term. I feel I have a very good relationship with him, I feel we’ve built up a trust between us. Personally, I’d love to see that."