Midfielder arrives at training ground as Newcastle United prepare transfer announcement

Jonjo Shelvey has arrived at Nottingham Forest’s training ground ahead of his proposed move from Newcastle United.

The 30-year-old has agreed a two-and-a-half contract at the City Ground to end his seven-year spell on Tyneside, where he made 202 appearances.

Magpies head coach Eddie Howe was reluctant to let Shelvey go but respected the midfielder’s wishes.

Shelvey, sidelined with a calf injury, faced an uncertain future with his contract at St James’ Park expiring in the summer.

Howe said yesterday: “I am an emotional guy behind the scenes and Jonjo is a very passionate guy. Jonjo loves football and he loves this club so there is emotion.

“Jonjo has been a huge player for this football club over the last seven years. I think he’s been a very important part of my squad since I’ve been here. Unfortunately he’s had injuries this season.

“Certainly, I would not want to lose him, but I have to understand, similar to Chris Wood’s situation, the player’s wishes with his contract coming to an end this summer.

“I think it would be difficult to keep Jonjo currently with where he wants his career to go.

“You can keep players that want to leave, but that’s not to say every player that wants to leave you can let go but I think you have to take every situation independently really and try and judge everything and just what’s be for him and the club.”

United and Forest are expected to announce the Shelvey transfer before tonight’s important Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Southampton (kick-off 8pm).