Newcastle United are entering a crucial period of squad planning, with several important contract decisions looming as the club looks to maintain stability heading into a demanding winter.
Sporting director Ross Wilson, recently brought in to oversee football operations, will play a key role in shaping the future of Eddie Howe’s squad.
His early months in charge are already filled with major calls that could define the balance of the team for the next few seasons.
For a side with lofty ambitions, ensuring clarity and harmony in the dressing room is essential and that starts with securing the futures of senior players while planning smart exits for others.
One of the biggest talking points revolves around Kieran Trippier. The experienced England international has been a pillar of leadership since joining the Magpies and remains one of Howe’s most trusted players.
At 35, his professionalism, fitness, and influence behind the scenes continue to set the standard. However, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season and no automatic renewal clause in place Trippier could technically begin talks with overseas clubs in January.
Howe has publicly stated that contract matters will be handled by the sporting director, suggesting Wilson will soon open discussions.
Given Trippier’s value both on and off the pitch, extending his stay would be a logical step, especially while Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento recover from injury.
Then there’s Fabian Schär, a player who continues to divide opinion among fans but commands deep respect within the squad. At 33, he remains one of Newcastle’s most reliable defenders, combining experience with composure on the ball.
However, competition has intensified with the arrival of Malick Thiaw, who is beginning to cement his place in Howe’s preferred defensive setup. Despite this, Schär’s versatility makes him invaluable, particularly if Newcastle opt for a back five in tough fixtures.
He’s already expressed a desire to retire at St. James’ Park, but that decision rests on whether the club can offer both game time and contract stability.
Reports suggest interest from European sides and the Saudi Pro League, so Wilson must decide whether to extend his deal soon or risk losing him on a free.
Club captain Jamaal Lascelles also faces a crossroads. After a long injury layoff, the 31-year-old has fought his way back into contention, featuring a couple of times off the bench this season.
His professionalism and leadership remain qualities that Howe deeply values, even if his minutes have been limited. With only a year left on his current contract, the captain is believed to be keen on triggering an extension to prove he can still contribute both as a player and a mentor in the dressing room.
Howe knows the importance of maintaining strong leaders around the squad, and Lascelles’ influence cannot be underestimated during an intense campaign that demands squad depth and unity.
Meanwhile, Emil Krafth represents one of the more straightforward decisions for Wilson. The dependable Swedish defender is 31 and serves as a versatile squad option who can fill in across the backline when needed.
His professionalism and attitude have never been in question, and he remains a valuable asset in rotation, especially during domestic cup competitions.
Krafth is unlikely to make contract demands and could be offered a short-term extension to maintain depth without disrupting wage structure or planning.
Matt Targett’s future, however, seems already decided. The left-back, currently on loan at Middlesbrough, has struggled for game time at Newcastle since his permanent £13 million move from Aston Villa.
Once seen as a long-term solution for the left side of defence, injuries and form have hampered his progress. With his contract set to expire at the end of June, both player and club are ready to part ways.
Targett’s departure will free up space for new arrivals and reduce the wage bill, as Newcastle continue to manage Financial Fair Play pressures while strengthening key positions.
For Ross Wilson, these upcoming weeks are a test of balance and foresight. Newcastle’s squad harmony and depth rely heavily on these decisions being made swiftly and strategically.
Players like Trippier and Schär bring invaluable experience that can’t easily be replaced, while others like Lascelles and Krafth add stability and professionalism to the group.
On the other hand, clearing out contracts such as Targett’s allows the club to refresh and reinvest smartly.
Howe has made it clear that his focus remains on performances and results, leaving Wilson to manage the business side of things.
But the two must remain aligned, as maintaining a competitive and unified squad will be essential to sustaining Newcastle’s ambitions domestically and in Europe. Each decision whether renewal or release will shape not only the club’s immediate future but also its long-term identity under this new era of leadership.
