Newcastle United official statement confirms first January transfer

The 29-year-old spent the first half of last season on loan at Standard Liege before linking up with Queens Park Rangers. QPR were among the clubs in the running for his signature in the summer but a move didn’t materialise and Hayden remained on Tyneside.

Hayden has long been frozen out by head coach Eddie Howe, with his last appearance coming in December 2021. This season, he has made a couple of appearances for the under-21s in the National League and made his Jamaica debut in November after switching his allegiances from England.

He’ll now look to get his club career back on track as he links up with former Magpies teammate Matt Ritchie at Portsmouth, who are battling to retain their second-tier status.

A Newcastle statement confirmed: “Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden has joined Championship side Portsmouth on loan for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.

“The 29-year-old, who has 171 Magpies appearances to his name, had temporary stints with Standard Liège and Queens Park Rangers during the last campaign.

“Hayden, a Jamaica international, has now made the switch to Fratton Park and will link up with former United team-mate Matt Ritchie on the South Coast.”

After securing his signature, Pompey boss John Mousinho commented: “Isaac is a central midfielder who has a wealth of experience in the Premier League and Championship.

“He’s extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet and is also very strong defensively, possessing a lot of the attributes we were looking for.

“But he’s also a leader both on and off the pitch, so we’re delighted to be able to add him to the squad for the rest of the season.”

Hayden remains under contract at Newcastle until 2026.