Newcastle United midfielder set for late exit as Eddie Howe hands opportunity to £15m star

Eddie Howe has confirmed that Matty Longstaff is one of the players likely to leave Newcastle United before Thursday’s transfer deadline.

The 22-year-old joined the Magpies on their pre-season tour of Austria and Portugal and has continued to train with the first team.

However, the midfielder is yet to feature in the matchday squad this campaign as United attempt to tie up an exit - presumably on loan.

Longstaff, brother of Sean, spent the second half of last season on loan at League Two side Mansfield Town and has attracted interest from Football League clubs.

“Matty is one,” Howe confirmed when asked about departures. “The slightly younger players, there might potentially be some movement with those.”

Staying put, however, is left-back Jamal Lewis, who made his first appearance since December against Tranmere Rovers last week.

Lewis was left out of the club’s 25-man squad for the second half of last season through injury, which also caused him to miss the entirety of pre-season.

Now back fit, Lewis will stay at St James’ Park according to Howe and aim to get his Newcastle career back on track.

Injuries and falling out of favour under Steve Bruce have made it a difficult couple of years for the 24-year-old following his £15million switch from Norwich City.

Reports in France had claimed Lewis was a loan target for Ligue 1 side Nice.