Newcastle are about to receive a bid for 29-year-old, he is now open to leaving – Sky journalist

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Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles could suddenly have the chance to leave St James’ Park.

It was reported heading into the summer that Newcastle had decided to get rid of the centre-back and were going to sell him, but that has not been the case.

Eddie Howe has sung the praises of Lascelles, while the 29-year-old stated himself that he wants to remain at the club.

However, that may no longer be the case. Lascelles has not featured in either of Newcastle‘s opening two Premier League games, while it is well documented that the Magpies are interested in signing a new right-sided centre-back.

Newcastle want someone who is better on the ball than Lascelles, which is further proof that he is not going to force his way into Howe’s starting XI. While his leadership skills are very important, there is seemingly no role for him on the pitch.

Now he might have the opportunity to take his career elsewhere.

Besiktas want to sign Jamaal Lascelles

According to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, Besiktas are interested in signing Lascelles before the transfer window closes.

He has written on Twitter: “Besiktas have strong interest in Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles & expected to make formal approach. Lascelles happy at Newcastle but thought to be open as he wants more game time. He was unused sub in opening two Premier League games this season.”

Tough decision for Lascelles and Newcastle United

Sheth believes that a formal approach is on its way, which means Newcastle and Lascelles will soon have a very big decision to make.

For Newcastle, moving Lascelles on probably makes sense. He is not going to be a regular, and there is now an opportunity to get some money for him rather than losing him for free next summer. His contract expires in 2024.

However, Newcastle can only really afford to let Lascelles leave if they get a replacement in. And the club are not just going to sign anyone. If they are signing a centre-back, it will be someone who they believe can challenge Fabian Schar and eventually take his place in the starting XI.

That is easier said than done, especially with less than a week to go before the transfer window closes.

It is a difficult one for Lascelles too. It is understandable why he would want to leave, as he needs to be playing regular football, and that is not going to happen at St James’ Park.

Lascelles was not a player who Newcastle were planning on selling, so the interest from Besiktas could make this a very interesting final week of the summer transfer window.