It won't be long before Newcastle kick off their pre-season preparations but will be there on day one
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe(Image: Newcastle United via Getty Images)
Newcastle United are less than two weeks away from starting pre-season training, but a clutch of decisions still need to be made behind the scenes.
Before the Magpies even get a new signing through the door, the shape of Eddie Howe's squad could change. Dan Burn revealed last month that there was sadness in the dressing room as some his team-mates went around and shook hands for what could be the last time.
Here's a quick look at the potentially changing status of some of Newcastle's squad members before the summer schedule kicks off in August.
Callum Wilson
The striker has rejected a couple of offers from Newcastle after incentivised packages were pushed his way. There was talk of Leeds United being keen on the ex-Bournemouth man, but that has gone quiet for now.
After a string of appearances as a pundit for DAZN, there has been no mention of his next move so far. Wilson will be out of contract on his existing deal on June 30.
Sean Longstaff
Talk of Everton's interest has been reheated today with the Toffees long-term admirers of the midfielder. He has a year left on his deal and a £10m fee has been mooted.
The question is, will he start pre-season with Newcastle or on Merseyside? D-Day for United is July 7 when players return to training. Or could there be others in the hunt still with Leeds United also keen?
Matt Targett
The former Aston Villa star has had an injury hit three years since his move was made permanent. The £100,000 left-back has one year left on his current deal but was essentially on the transfer list in January and Newcastle will listen to offers again.
John Ruddy
Initial talks with the veteran keeper did not materialise in a deal. Newcastle opened talks again with him this month when announcing their retained list.
There are suggestions the former Norwich keeper wants to play out the last couple of years of his career but that won't happen at Newcastle.
Martin Dubravka
Knocking on the manager's door for a move again after losing his place in the springtime, Dubravka signed an extension in January to fend off Al-Shabab but is now unsettled again.
Has said on the record in Slovakia he has no interest in being No 2 let alone "No 3". Could leave as a cash sale.
Odysseas Vlachodimos
The Greek international has been the consummate pro at St James' Park after a £20m move from Nottingham Forest. But it has not been a success for the ex-Benfica goalie.
He would be sold if Newcastle got a significant cash bid for him that meant United didn't suffer a PSR loss but there have been no takers. His position could change if Ruddy and Dubravka go as he would be moved up the pecking order.
The Greek stopper is only prepared to leave if his wages can at least be matched. A loan deal could be the best bet.
Joe Willock
There's been interest in the midfielder from Fulham and Crystal Palace who both have money to spend. Will struggle to get into a Premier League midfield three while Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are fit but will get opportunities in Europe and the cups.
Newcastle also need a strong back-up option in midfield. But Willock wants first-team action and may favour a return to London. Certainly a potential deal is one to watch.
Harvey Barnes
Chronicle Live were told over the weekend that a swap deal for Anthony Elanga "wouldn't work" for Nottingham Forest. The Europa Conference League-bound side would only listen to big cash offers for Elanga.
Barnes has been linked with Aston Villa too but is happy where he is. For all that, Newcastle would have to listen to any big offers for the left winger.