Manchester United have suffered a major blow to their plans to strengthen the squad.
The Times reported yesterday that Lewis Hall has agreed a new five-year deal to stay at Newcastle United.
The official announcement could come out today with Hall becoming one of the best-paid players at Newcastle.
He is contracted at Newcastle until the summer of 2031 and it remains unclear whether his new deal contains a release clause.
United had a strong interest in bringing Hall to Old Trafford during the previous summer transfer window.
The Red Devils contacted Newcastle directly but were told emphatically that he was not for sale.
INEOS could regret waiting
United entered the summer with midfield reinforcements high on their agenda, but the need for a new left-back was impossible to ignore.
Luke Shaw is the only senior left-back available in the current squad.
With United potentially facing a gruelling schedule of around 60 matches, expecting Shaw to shoulder the entire workload would be a huge gamble.
Hall would have represented an ideal long-term solution for United at left-back.
Still only 22, the England international has already amassed more than 100 senior appearances for Chelsea and Newcastle.
His technical quality on the ball makes him particularly attractive, while his aggressive defending gives him the bite required to thrive at the highest level.
His ability to play progressive passes is another standout quality, one he developed during his formative years when he was used in midfield.
The new contract could now hand Newcastle a formidable negotiating advantage in future transfer windows.
They may not entertain any offers for the youngster.
Even if Newcastle eventually decide to cash in, they could demand a record-breaking fee for a full-back, especially if Hall enjoys a spectacular 2026-27 campaign.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com