Nick Woltemade reacts as Newcastle announce long-term contract extension
Nick Woltemade is among the Newcastle stars to have reacted to news of Harvey Barnes' new long-term contract extension.
Barnes was linked with a move away from Newcastle ahead of the summer transfer window due to their financial concerns.
Woltemade has also been touted to depart the club after he struggled for regular minutes and was moved from his recognised striker spot by Eddie Howe towards the end of the season.
He has now been backed to stay at the club, with Barnes definitely set to remain as a key part of Howe's squad after a surprise announcement.
Newcastle confirmed on Monday afternoon that the 28-year-old has signed a new "long-term" contract extension, with his initial deal set to expire in 2028.
Woltemade has liked the club's post announcing the new deal, with the likes of Joelinton, Anthony Elanga, Malick Thiaw and Sean Steur also doing the same.
Did Harvey Barnes come close to leaving Newcastle this summer?
Barnes shone at times throughout last season, but also only started half of the 38 Premier League matches as the likes of Anthony Gordon, Elanga and Jacob Murphy were preferred on either flank.
His strong form meant Thomas Tuchel saw fit to hand him a first England cap since 2020 in March, but he missed out on the World Cup squad as otherThree Lions wingers returned to fitness.
Sources revealed to Football Insider in June that Barnes was open to joining Aston Villa after reports of their interest emerged before the start of the summer window.
Newcastle's latest move will end any further talk of a possible move away for the remainder of the summer, and has drawn widespread praise from their supporters online.
What is the latest on Woltemade's future?
Reports have claimed that Woltemade has been frustrated with his standing in Howe's squad over the last six months.
He was moved back to attacking midfield midway through the season after struggling to score regularly, but despite rumours of an exit, he has made it clear that he is keen to fight for his starting place on Tyneside.
Speaking to German reporters at the World Cup last month, he said: "No (regrets). I moved to the Premier League, the best league in the world, when I was 23. I’ve learned a lot this season. I’ve improved athletically, I can keep up with the tremendous pace, and I can hold my own in challenges.
"Overall, it’s been a step forward. That’s why I have no doubts about Newcastle. I’ll make my mark there."
New reports over the last week have claimed that Borussia Dortmund are keen on his services, but Newcastle are not set to sanction an exit and will instead look to sell Yoane Wissa this summer.