The Newcastle United transfer story that has ‘surprised’ Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe has ruled out Jonjo Shelvey leaving Newcastle United during the January transfer window.

The 30-year-old was linked with a move to Turkish giants Besiktas over the weekend - a transfer link Howe says he was surprised to hear about.

Indeed, the Magpies’ head coach insists the midfielder remains a “valued member of the squad” as he works his way back from a calf injury.

“I’ve been surprised at all the speculation (about Shelvey),” said Howe. “I’ve got no idea where that has come from.

“It’s certainly not come from us. Jonjo is a very valued member of the squad.”

Howe hopes to have Shelvey back available next month after the former Liverpool man suffered his second long-term injury of the campaign.

Shelvey had to undergo hamstring in August and returned to play just five games before injuring his calf.

The player’s contract is set to expire this summer but a one-year extension will be automatically triggered if he makes two more senior starts.