“SHOCKING Newcastle United Bombshell: Ross Wilson’s FOUR JAW-DROPPING Decisions That’ll Leave Fans Speechless After £13M Defender’s Exit!”

Incoming Newcastle United sporting director Ross Wilson will be eager to make an immediate impact when he officially steps into the role, succeeding Paul Mitchell at St James’ Park.

 

Several contract situations require urgent attention, with head coach Eddie Howe keen to maintain dressing-room stability ahead of a demanding winter schedule.

 

Clarity over players’ futures is crucial to sustaining harmony within the squad, particularly with a number of contracts set to expire soon.

 

Over the next few weeks, Newcastle’s hierarchy faces key decisions that will shape the club’s medium-term future.

 

Below is a breakdown of players who need clarity on their situations, as well as those whose contracts run until 2026.

 

Kieran Trippier

The veteran full-back, who remains one of Newcastle’s most influential figures, does not have a clause to extend his deal automatically.

 

As a result, he will be free to negotiate with overseas clubs from January unless the club puts forward an offer.

 

At 35, Trippier continues to prove his worth, both on and off the pitch. His professionalism, leadership, and tactical intelligence have been invaluable this season, especially given the injuries to Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento.

 

Howe has frequently praised the former England international, acknowledging his presence as vital to the team’s structure and morale.

 

Speaking to Chronicle Live, Howe said:

“His contract length is something that an incoming sporting director will be on top of. For me, with the number of games we have, it’s about focusing on results. But I’m sure the club will take care of these things.”

 

Fabian Schar

The experienced Swiss defender finds himself competing with Malick Thiaw for a starting role on the right side of central defence.

 

Despite the competition, Schar remains a reliable performer in both the Premier League and Champions League.

 

Now 33, Schar still offers immense value, particularly when Howe opts for a back five. His ability to read the game, distribute from deep, and marshal the defence make him an asset worth retaining.

 

Schar has even expressed a desire to finish his career at Newcastle.

 

However, interest from European clubs and lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia could complicate matters.

 

The club will need to provide assurances about his role if they wish to keep him beyond his current deal.

 

Jamaal Lascelles

Club captain Jamaal Lascelles continues to display exemplary professionalism after a difficult year sidelined by injury.

 

He has returned determined to prove his worth, making two appearances from the bench so far this season.

 

At 31, Lascelles remains capable of fulfilling Howe’s tactical demands while offering valuable leadership qualities.

 

With a year left on his deal, he could look to secure a one-year extension.

 

His influence in the dressing room and commitment to the cause make him an important figure, even if he no longer starts every week.

 

Emil Krafth

The dependable Swedish defender is another player whose future needs addressing. A versatile and unassuming member of the squad, Krafth rarely complains about game time.

 

He featured for an hour in the 4–1 Carabao Cup win over Bradford City and proved he can fill in across the backline when needed — right-back, centre-back, or even left-back in emergencies.

 

At 31, Krafth represents a low-risk, cost-effective option for squad depth. Extending his contract would be a straightforward decision for Howe, who values his professionalism and reliability.

 

Matt Targett

Targett’s time on Tyneside appears to be drawing to a close. Currently on loan at Middlesbrough, the former Aston Villa left-back’s contract expires in June, and Newcastle are not expected to offer a renewal.

 

Signed for £13 million after an impressive initial loan, Targett has struggled to regain his place and will likely move on permanently in the summer. Both the club and player are reportedly aligned in their decision to part ways.

 

As Ross Wilson prepares to begin his tenure, managing these contract situations will be among his top priorities.

 

Ensuring stability while planning for the future will determine how effectively Newcastle navigate the challenges of the coming months — and how they position themselves for another push in domestic and European competition.