Jamal Lewis: Howe ‘already lining up’ new left-back signing after Newcastle reveal – pundit
Newcastle United will “already be lining up” a move for a new left-back ahead of Jamal Lewis’ inevitable exit.
That is the view of former Leeds stiker Noel Whelan, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 24-year-old’s fate at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle confirmed last Thursday (3 February) that Lewis had been left out of the 24-man Premier League squad for the rest of 2021-22.
That came after this site revealed last Tuesday (1 February) that Lewis turned down deadline day loan offers from Stoke City and Birmingham City.
And The Express reported last Wednesday (2 February) that Turkish side Trabzonspor are also keen on a loan move for the defender.
Whelan insists that Newcastle will be eyeing an upgrade on Lewis, who is under contract until 2025.
“You want to finish the season on a high with some momentum and confidence in your game,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“Now he’s not been selected in the squad, he’s not going to do that at Newcastle. He knows the score. He needs to get himself out on loan.
“I’m sure Eddie Howe won’t stand in the way of Jamal Lewis. It seems to me that they have made their mind up already.
“He’s not going to be part of their squad next year, I don’t think. This spells the end of his Newcastle career.
“I expect Howe will already be lining up much better in that position if they stay in the Premier League.
“Now it’s about consolidating your career and going somewhere else.”
Lewis has slipped further down the pecking order at St James’ following the signing of Dan Burn from Brighton and Paul Dummett’s return from injury.
Teammates Isaac Hayden and Ciaran Clark were also left out of the 25-man Premier League squad.
In other news, Newcastle United tipped to “beat Everton to deal” after Steve Hitchen news at Tottenham.