Newcastle United could lose up to 10 players on free transfers at the end of the 2025/26 season.
After releasing the likes of Callum Wilson and Jamal Lewis in 2025, Newcastle United face more contract dilemmas in 2026.
Sporting director Ross Wilson has some tough decisions to make in the months ahead, with various members of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United squad at risk of becoming free agents.
Let’s run through the 10 players who could leave Newcastle United on frees this summer.
Who is the one player Newcastle United should SELL in January?
Kieran Trippier
The biggest player who Newcastle United could lose on a free transfer is Kieran Trippier.
He has a big decision to make at 35-years-old, as his minutes are only going to decrease as long as he has Tino Livramento ahead of him.
But Trippier is still a massively important member of Eddie Howe’s team, with his leadership and experience key to Newcastle’s success.
That is why Newcastle could hand Trippier a new contract in 2026.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Keep
Fabian Schar
Trippier is not the only Newcastle United stalwart entering the final few months of their deal.
The same goes for Fabian Schar, who is no longer a regular at St James’ Park. He has been replaced by summer signing Malick Thiaw, who has been outstanding since his arrival.
That has led to Schar becoming frustrated, and it could result in him seeking a new opportunity.
That would disappoint Howe, who will likely want to retain the 33-year-old centre-back.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Keep
Jamaal Lascelles
It could be a different story when it comes to Jamaal Lascelles.
The centre-back has barely featured for the Magpies this season since recovering from a horrific knee injury, and a 2026 departure feels likely.
Lascelles is currently Newcastle United’s longest-serving player, having officially signed for the club in 2014.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Release
Emil Krafth
It has been reported that Newcastle want to keep Emil Krafth in January amid interest from Copenhagen. However, it is unclear if that sentiment extends into next year.
That will likely depend on whether Newcastle sign a new full-back. If not, Howe could be minded to keep the Sweden international for his experience and versatility.
Krafth has been a Toon player since 2019, having been brought to the club by Steve Bruce.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Keep
John Ruddy
John Ruddy is in his second year as a Newcastle United player, but is yet to make his debut for the club.
The 39-year-old was brought in to strengthen the goalkeeping department and is said to be a good influence behind the scenes.
Whether that is enough to earn him another year remains to be seen.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Keep
Jamaal Lascelles could LEAVE Newcastle United in January! What are your favourite memories of his career at the club?
That PSG game has to be up there 😍
Mark Gillespie
The same goes for Mark Gillespie, the local lad who is a pivotal cog off the pitch for Newcastle United.
He has not played for the Magpies since the PIF takeover, but Howe massively praised Gillespie for his contribution during a 2024 interview.
If he is happy in his role and Newcastle United are happy with his work then it would not be a surprise if he is kept on.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Keep
Max Thompson
In contrast, a summer departure for Newcastle United academy goalkeeper Max Thompson feels likely.
The 21-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance for the club, and does not look destined to become the Magpies’ long-term number one.
As Newcastle search for Nick Pope’s long-term successor, there has been no mention of Thompson getting an opportunity.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Release
Matt Targett
The expectation was that Matt Targett has already played his last game for Newcastle United. However, the Magpies’ injuries have resulted in speculation that Targett could be recalled from his current loan spell.
He is currently enjoying a season-long loan deal at Middlesbrough, with his Toon contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign.
While he would give Newcastle additional depth, Targett is expected to remain at Middlesbrough. That is the best thing for his career, as he aims to secure a permanent deal.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Release
Harrison Ashby
Harrison Ashby is not getting a chance at Newcastle this season, despite Howe having issues at full-back.
That should tell you all you need to know about the former West Ham defender, who has enjoyed loan spells at QPR and Swansea during his Toon career.
The hope was that Ashby could blossom into Trippier’s successor at St James’ Park. Now they are both at risk of becoming free agents at the same time.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Release
Joe White
Like Targett, Joe White is someone else who has played his last game for Newcastle United. He has got four Premier League appearances to his name, but is not going to add to that tally in a black and white shirt.
The 23-year-old is currently on loan at League One club Leyton Orient, and will hope his performances result in a permanent contract come the summer of 2026.
Geordie Boys’ verdict: Release
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