Sven Botman sends emotional seven-word message as Newcastle United exit sealed
Sven Botman took to social media with a heartfelt message as Newcastle United waved farewell to another player this summer.
John Ruddy, Callum Wilson, and Jamal Lewis' exits on free transfers were all confirmed earlier this month, while defender Lloyd Kelly also joined Juventus in February on a £20million permanent deal [BBC Sport].
Newcastle have also been wrapped up in an Alexander Isak transfer saga, with Football Insider understanding that the striker could force through a move to Liverpool following a £130m bid.
The Reds appear to have moved on to the Magpies' striker target, Hugo Ekitike, with a potential transfer moving along very quickly at Anfield, but those at St James' Park should currently be focusing on exits.
Another long-time servant has sealed his exit from St James' Park, aiming for more precious game time in the Premier League next season, and Botman has been left rather emotional by the move.
Sean Longstaff joins Leeds United
Taking to Instagram stories (18 July), Longstaff wrote: "Gonna miss you buddy. All the best, Sean Longstaff," with three love heart emojis following the midfielder's permanent transfer.
The 27-year-old, who made a total of 214 appearances for the Magpies since graduating from the academy, has joined Daniel Farke's Leeds United side on a £12m deal [BBC Sport].
Eddie Howe faces difficult summer at Newcastle United
Football Insider verdict
The ongoing rumours surrounding Isak are the biggest concern at St James' Park over the coming weeks, with supporters preparing themselves for the worst ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
After securing Champions League qualification last term and also lifting the Carabao Cup against Liverpool, Football Insider understood that Newcastle's confidence over a new deal for Isak was growing.
That no longer appears to be the case, with the player on reduced wages over the last 12 months, at least compared to what he could be on elsewhere, due to contract talks being shelved last year.
There has been no movement over transfers for Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, and Harvey Barnes, and Mick Brown told Football Insider that Conor Gallagher would be open to a Newcastle move.
Howe's side are back competing in the Champions League next season, and if they are to continue climbing up the Premier League table as well, the bulk of the squad needs to remain together.
It remains to be seen hw easy that will be for the Magpies, especially with Isak likely to be tested over the next few weeks of the summer transfer window, but Newcastle will continue to build their project.