A report by the Chronicle has shared a list of players who we can expect to leave Newcastle this summer if Rafa Benitez remains in control of our club.
It is said that there are several first-team players patiently waiting to see if the Spaniard will remain in the dugout, as the former Real Madrid and Liverpool boss continuing on as the manager could spell the end to their Magpies careers, or will be given another chance to prove their worth to whoever succeeds the 59-year-old.
Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Rob Elliot is one who will likely be heading through the exit door if Benitez stays, as the Spaniard has told the 33-year-old he has no future at St James’ Park.
Jack Colback is another player Benitez is thought to be happy see leave in the summer, while academy product Rolando Aarons may be sold despite a successful loan spell with Sheffield Wednesday. The same goes for Dwight Gayle as he does not match the profile the boss would like in his number one striker, while Joselu is expected to leave regardless of who is at the helm.
Karl Darlow may have a future in Black and White if Benitez stays, meanwhile, but with 12-months left on his contract, the thinking is he may be sold or look for first-team football regardless. Freddie Woodman has also entered the final year of his contract on Tyneside, as he refused to agree to a new deal when the chance was there before going out on loan, and will now have his future decided to avoid losing him for free in 2020.
Ciaran Clark, on the other hand, is not expected to be forced to find a new home, but rather may search for one if Benitez – or his replacement – is unable to guarantee him more minutes on the field after his campaign ended with just nine Premier League starts.
Isaac Hayden is certainly vying for a move out of St James’ Park, but will only get his wish if someone bids what Newcastle consider to be an acceptable amount and a replacement can be signed.
As for Jonjo Shelvey, he has been the subject of interest from West Ham, but it is still unclear as far as the Chronicle are aware as to whether he will be sold or retained.
Regardless of whether Benitez stays or goes, loan duo Antonio Barreca and Kenedy will leave United this summer and return to their parent clubs, after we opted against making their temporary moves permanent. Mo Diame will also be on his way out of St James’ Park at the end of next month once his contract expires.
Those waiting to see if Benitez leaves as it gives them another chance to prove their worth could be set to pack their bags as well, though, as CalcioMercato.IT have echoed reports from Tuesday’s edition of Tuttosport where the Italian newspaper suggested the boss and owner Mike Ashley have reached an agreement.
They also claimed Ashley had given Benitez assurances that there will be funds available to strengthen the first-team in the transfer market as both want to see United competing in Europe again.
That could mean a move for Salamon Rondon is on the cards, as the Chronicle understand the Venezuelan will only be signed if Benitez stays.