Newcastle United is nearing the completion of a fresh long-term deal with Brazilian midfielder Joelinton. After several rounds of talks over the past month, an agreement has been outlined with Joelinton and his agents. The resolution is expected before the season concludes. Securing Joelinton’s stay has been a top agenda for Eddie Howe, given the midfielder’s contract has only 15 months left.
Initially, there were concerns that Newcastle’s financial constraints might pose obstacles in retaining Joelinton, who has emerged as a pivotal player for the Magpies since transitioning to midfield following his £40m transfer from Hoffenheim.
However, it appears that all parties have reached an agreement on the terms of a proposed contract that will see Joelinton enjoy a significant pay raise, elevating him to one of Newcastle’s highest-paid players.
The Brazilian international is poised to extend his stay on Tyneside for another four years, eliminating any uncertainty surrounding his future as the summer transfer window approaches.
This new agreement will come as a huge relief to Howe, who had been apprehensive about the possibility of losing one of his team’s key contributors amidst what promises to be a busy transfer window, both in terms of arrivals and departures.
After initially struggling to find his footing as a center-forward, Joelinton’s fortunes at Newcastle underwent a dramatic shift following his transition to a midfield role.
His absence due to injury has been keenly felt, as his dynamism and tireless work rate have become crucial components of Howe’s high-intensity playing style.
Thankfully, Joelinton’s recovery from a groin injury is progressing well, and he is expected to return to full training at the beginning of next month, potentially making him available for the team’s final few matches of the season.
The recent positive developments in contract negotiations serve as evidence that Newcastle’s off-field operations have not been significantly impacted by Dan Ashworth’s absence, who is currently on gardening leave amid interest from Manchester United.
In Ashworth’s stead, head of scouting Steve Nickson has assumed a central role in discussions with Joelinton and his representatives. While Darren Eales and Amanda Staveley were also involved, Nickson’s prior involvement in bringing Joelinton to Newcastle from the Bundesliga positioned him as a key figure in the contract talks.