Head coach Eddie Howe has clarified that despite reports suggesting otherwise, no players at Newcastle United have been informed that they will be leaving the club. Decisions regarding the contracts of Matt Ritchie, Loris Karius, Paul Dummett, and Mark Gillespie still need to be made. Howe emphasized his intention to establish a strong foundation for the current roster in preparation for the next season. Retaining certain squad members is seen as beneficial for Newcastle’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) compliance. Howe stated that every player currently in the squad has the opportunity to remain with the team next year, regardless of their contract status. He categorically denied having already made any decisions regarding players’ contract renewals, stating that no one has been ruled out for a new deal.
Loris Karius, the goalkeeper, is attracting interest from Serie A clubs and is aware that he needs to make a decision regarding next season, taking into account family reasons as his partner and family are based in Italy. Discussions have recently taken place regarding the futures of Matt Ritchie and Paul Dummett, and both players have a chance of staying with the club for the upcoming season.
A decision has already been made on the departure of Republic of Ireland midfielder Jeff Hendrick, whose contract will expire at the end of the season. Hendrick was loaned to Sheffield Wednesday but has not been registered for the second half of the season with the Owls. As his loan deal is for the entire season, Newcastle has indicated that Sheffield Wednesday must adhere to the terms of their agreement, and Hendrick will remain in South Yorkshire. Hendrick joined Newcastle from Burnley in 2020 and has been earning £50,000 per week, so his departure will provide Newcastle with more flexibility in terms of their wage bill.
Additionally, Newcastle is hopeful of selling Scottish international Ryan Fraser in exchange for a cash fee, which would free up an additional £70,000 per week on the wage bill.
