This summer is set to be a busy one on Tyneside as Eddie Howe looks to build a Newcastle United side in his own image - or at least one that can consistently compete in the top half of the Premier League.
While his mantra this year has been one of evolution not revolution, it’s impossible not to believe United will be one of the busier teams in the top flight this summer.
In order to maximise their budget, the Magpies must shift players out, even though the more pressing desire is to see players arrive. Howe had a 25-man squad, and players like Ciaran Clark, Jamal Lewis and Isaac Hayden outside of the group at the back end of last season - and the club’s owners are keen not to see that repeated this.
So who will go and who will stay? Here we take a look at those with one foot out the St James’ Park doors - and those who look like they’re here to stay.
5. Dwight Gayle - likely
All eight of Gayle’s appearances in the Premier League last season came from the bench, totalling a mere 30 minutes of action. And with that, the 32-year-old hasn’t scored a competitive goal since December 2020. | Getty Images
6. Kelland Watts - likely
The central defender has returned to pre-season training with Newcastle after a successful loan spell at Wigan. The expectation, however, is he will secure another loan move later at some point during the summer window. | Getty Images
7. Jeff Hendrick - likely
Newcastle’s midfield is already a crowded position, and Hendrick, left out of the 25-man squad and loaned to Queens Park Rangers in January, is arguably bottom of the pecking order. Photo: Naomi Baker
8. Karl Darlow - likely
The arrival of Nick Pope will see Dubravka and the former battle it out for the No.1 position. Darlow is now down to third choice. Photo: Stu Forster