‘People have probably heard’ - Lewis Hall opens up on Chelsea to Newcastle United transfer

Lewis Hall has revealed his family’s love for Newcastle United was among the key reasons for moving to St James’ Park from Chelsea.

The 18-year-old has joined the Magpies on a season-long loan, with the deal including an obligation to buy - believed to be £28million plus £7m add-ons - next summer based on performance-related criteria.

Hall, who joined the Blues’ academy at under-8s level, has opened up on his decision to make the switch to Tyneside - citing United’s transformation as well as his Geordie roots.

“It’s a massive club with a big history,” Hall told NUFCTV. “Seeing how the club transformed last season and the transition phase it’s going through is a big reason for me wanting to join.

“Playing against Newcastle last season and seeing how you they, it’s a really talented squad. I’m really looking forward to it. People have probably heard that my whole family are big Newcastle fans.

“My dad was born in Newcastle, he supported the club growing up along with my grandparents. As soon as me and my brother were born, straight away it was ‘right you’re Newcastle, no one else!’ It kind of got drilled into us that we have to be Newcastle fans, which I’m very happy about.

“It’s an iconic top. I’m really happy to be wearing this shirt. Hopefully, we can make the fans proud.”

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe also played a major part in Hall’s decision.

“It goes without saying he’s an amazing manager,” Hall added. “You can see what he did last season and how he conducts himself off the pitch, That’s another reason why I chose to come here when you look at the transformation of the squad.

“Like I said before, the transition phase that the team has gone through, I feel a lot is to do with him. I’m really pleased to be able to work under him.

“Now everything’s done, I want to get out there on the pitch and build a good relationship with my teammates.”

Hall made his Premier League debut at St James’ Park last season, which ended in a 1-0 win for Newcastle. Hall made a further 11 appearances in all competitions and was named The Blues’ player of the match in the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge back in May.

On his debut, Hall said: “It all happened quite quickly. A couple of days before it was my first game of the season for the senior team and then after that I got put in against Newcastle. There isn’t a better stadium to make my debut at. I was over the moon, and so was my family as well. Everyone was buzzing for me. Now to be here is a massive honour.

The England youth international becomes the club’s fifth summer signing behind Yankuba Minteh, Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento - and will wear shirt number 20.