Exclusive: Newcastle’s priority summer signing revealed amid Lewis Hall concerns
Newcastle United will prioritise the signing of a left-back this summer to provide competition and cover for Lewis Hall, sources have told Football Insider.
The England international has missed 19 games across all competitions through injury since his permanent arrival from Chelsea in 2024.
The Magpies spent £28million to sign the highly-rated defender, and hope to better protect him going forward.
Dan Burn has often stepped in to cover for the full-back, but the 33-year-old is not seen as a long-term option in that position.
Tino Livramento is another proven player on both defensive flanks, but he has suffered from his own injury issues in recent seasons and is currently on the sidelines.
Newcastle United to protect Lewis Hall
Hall has been a revelation for Newcastle since they secured his signature in the summer of 2023.
The 21-year-old, a lifelong fan of the Magpies, initially joined on loan for the 2023-24 season and made a great impression.
Chelsea fans were keen to see the left-back stay at Stamford Bridge and be part of the squad going forward, but decision-makers relented when they received £28m from Newcastle.
| Lewis Hall | Premier League 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 19 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances created (big) | 16 (4) |
| Successful dribbles | 31 |
| Duels won | 112 |
Hall was instantly a key part of Eddie Howe‘s team, starting 27 straight Premier League games to start last season.
But after suffering a foot injury against Liverpool in March 2025, the England international was ruled out for the rest of the season, and he has suffered from several issues since.
This season, the 21-year-old has been superb when fit, providing a hugely consistent option for Howe.
Newcastle will be aware of just how important it is now that they protect Hall, and transfer chiefs look set to put their money behind that task in the summer window.
Who could Newcastle target in the summer?
Newcastle will be looking to back Hall up with a player capable of stepping in, but also happy to wait in the wings for their opportunity.
With that in mind, it can be assumed that the Magpies will target a younger option to both develop and provide competition.
The likes of West Ham’s Oliver Scarles, who has made 12 Premier League appearances this season, could be targeted.
The 20-year-old could be made more available should the Hammers be relegated this season, but there are plenty of alternative options likely flooding Newcastle’s target lists.