Newcastle put senior star up for sale as Eddie Howe rift threatens to form over ruthless transfer strategy

Newcastle will ‘listen to offers’ for their club captain in the coming windows despite Eddie Howe loving two traits he possesses and viewing him as an ‘important’ part of the squad, per a report.

Since their Saudi-led takeover, Newcastle have splashed the cash, though have done so wisely. The Magpies have broken their transfer record when signing Alexander Isak for £63m. The Swede is injured at present, though will provide a deadly one-two punch with Callum Wilson when available.

Elsewhere, Newcastle have found great joy sanctioning deals in the mid-price range.

Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier and Sven Botman were all signed for a combined total of less than £60m.

The trio are all regular starters and have played a huge part in transforming Newcastle’s rearguard into the Premier League’s meanest. The 10 goals they’ve conceded is the league’s fewest, with Arsenal and Man City next best with 11 each.

Botman’s arrival, as well as that of Dan Burn, has had a negative effect on one Newcastle player, however.

Club captain Jamaal Lascelles has been relegated to fourth-choice at centre-half. The ever impressive Fabian Schar is the one constant, with either Botman or Burn usually selected as his partner.

Now, according to Football Insider, Newcastle’s decision-makers have decided to call time on Lascelles’ career at St. James’ Park.

Ashley-era players all at risk

They report Newcastle have determined there’ll be a ‘gradual break-up’ of the players signed in the Mike Ashley era and Lascelles could be among the first to go.

Newcastle ‘will listen to offers’ for the 28-year-old who is not viewed as part of the long-term plans at the club.

The possibility of an exit as early as January is touted. Lascelles will reportedly command a fee of around £10m, though the player may have to push for a move if he is to leave mid-season.

If Lascelles is sold, Newcastle will need to sign an adequate replacement in the same window. As such, and in order to not rush, a summer exit is deemed more likely.

Newcastle decision won’t please Eddie Howe

Manager Eddie Howe’s stance on Newcastle’s decision is hinted at in the piece, and it sounds like he’s far from pleased.

Howe still views Lascelles as an ‘important back-up’ to his three front-line centre-backs.

Indeed, a condensed fixture list post-Christmas due to the World Cup will make depth more vital than ever. No club with top four aspirations can afford to be caught short in such a crucial position.

Furthermore, Howe loves Lascelles’ attitude and leadership, something that is evident by the fact he’s still club captain despite losing his starting place.

The writing will be on the wall for many of the squad held over from the previous regime. A Lascelles exit despite being club captain would send a message that no one is safe.

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