Newcastle United’s academy have confirmed their retained and released list following the 2025-26 season.
Newcastle United have axed seven youth stars following the 2025-26 campaign.
The Magpies confirmed Ciaran Thompson, Alfie Harrison, Adam Harrison, James Taylor, Joe Brayson, Thomas Bryant and Darren Palmer have not been kept on beyond the current season. Options have also been activated to retain Dylan Charlton, Scott Bailey, Johnny Emerson and Luke Craggs.
The most high-profile departure is former Manchester City prospect Harrison, who arrived for a deal that would have totalled £3.5million if specific conditions were met. He featured in first-team friendlies against Team K League, Espanyol and Atletico Madrid last summer.
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However, Newcastle have now confirmed he will leave alongside six teammates at under-21 level when his contract expires this month. Academy director Steve Harper has backed the group to bounce back following the biggest setback of their fledgling careers.
“I want to extend my thanks to all the players moving on from the academy this summer,” Harper told the club website. “They have all made positive contributions during their time here and they are all well placed to continue their football journey on the back of the platform they’ve built.
“Our support for each of them will continue as they take their next steps. The academy remains a resource for them and I look forward to seeing where their journeys take them. On behalf of everyone at the football club, we wish them every success for the future.”
Newcastle have reshaped the academy setup ahead of the summer window. Robbie Stockdale was confirmed as the permanent under-21s coach in March, with Scott Mitchell - although yet to be confirmed - arriving from Oxford United as head of recruitment for the youth sides.
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