🚨BREAKING Newcastle United agree three deals in secret as Leeds United delivered transfer blow
Newcastle United Confirm Departures as Contract Situations Become Clearer
Newcastle United have officially confirmed that defenders Jamal Lewis and Lloyd Kelly will be departing the club at the end of the current month, with their contracts set to expire on June 30. In a statement that sheds light on the club’s retained list, Newcastle also revealed ongoing negotiations with veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy and striker Callum Wilson, both of whom could still remain on Tyneside, depending on the outcome of talks.
Despite discussions continuing with Ruddy and Wilson, the club is keeping its options open in both the goalkeeping and forward departments, actively exploring the transfer market for potential reinforcements. Meanwhile, backup goalkeeper Mark Gillespie has secured an extended stay after triggering a contract extension clause, ensuring he remains with the Magpies beyond the previously scheduled June 30 expiry.
Callum Wilson, who has drawn interest from several clubs due to his potential availability on a free transfer, has been particularly linked with newly-promoted Leeds United. The West Yorkshire side are reportedly eager to bring the experienced forward to Elland Road. However, Newcastle’s announcement that they are still in talks with Wilson may complicate Leeds’ pursuit, as the player is now being courted both externally and internally.
The retained list has also shed light on a number of previously uncertain contract situations within the Newcastle squad. Despite the lack of formal public announcements, several players have quietly agreed to new terms behind the scenes, ensuring their continued presence at St James’ Park next season.
Secret Contract Extensions Revealed
Among those whose futures had been unclear is midfielder Sean Longstaff. Though his contract was initially set to expire this summer, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe disclosed to The Gazette last month that Longstaff had already been tied down for the 2025/26 campaign. The club had reportedly triggered a one-year extension option, though this move had not been formally communicated to the public until now. With the retained list now confirming his status, Longstaff remains part of the club’s plans, though speculation continues to swirl around potential interest from Premier League sides such as Everton and Leeds United.
A similar situation occurred with club captain Jamaal Lascelles. It was widely assumed that the central defender’s deal would lapse at the end of the 2024/25 season. However, The Gazette reported that Newcastle had, in fact, come to terms on an extension with the player, despite choosing not to announce it publicly.
The case of Kieran Trippier also drew attention. His previously stated contract was due to end in June 2025, but it has now been confirmed that the England international agreed an extension last year, pushing his deal through to the summer of 2026. This new arrangement had gone under the radar until the publication of the club’s retained list.
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka’s situation was another question mark. Newcastle had announced that the Slovakian international had committed to a new deal following interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab. However, the specifics were left vague. According to The Gazette, Dubravka has signed an agreement that keeps him at the club until June 2026, now officially confirmed via the retained list.
Focus Turns to 2026 Contract Expirations
With the retained list now clearing up much of the uncertainty surrounding Newcastle’s immediate squad plans, attention is beginning to shift toward players who will enter the final year of their contracts in the 2025/26 season.
In addition to Longstaff, Lascelles, Trippier, and Dubravka, several other players are believed to be approaching the final year of their current deals. These include Fabian Schär, Matt Targett, Emil Krafth, Nick Pope, Mark Gillespie, and Isaac Hayden. Their futures will likely be addressed in the coming months as the club evaluates who remains part of the long-term project under Eddie Howe.
Fortunately for Newcastle supporters, the club’s key assets remain under contract for several more seasons. Most notably, star striker and top scorer Alexander Isak is signed through to 2028. However, the club is said to be considering opening discussions over a new deal to reward the Swedish international for his impressive performances and to secure his services well into the future.
With transfer activity heating up and contract decisions needing to be finalized, this summer is shaping up to be a pivotal period for Newcastle United as they look to build upon their recent progress and prepare for another competitive Premier League campaign.