Newcastle United have sent Lewis Hall home from their warm-weather pre-season training camp in La Manga, Spain, after the left-back picked up a minor injury. The 21-year-old, who is a transfer target for Manchester United this summer, has returned to Tyneside, while his teammates are set to face Valencia this evening.
Newcastle's stance on Hall
The Magpies have already rejected an initial approach from Michael Carrick's side and remain adamant that Hall will not be sold this summer. Newcastle have already lost Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon during the current transfer window.
Eddie Howe's departure from the club has only increased speculation about Hall's future, though the club have stressed that he will not be sold. The left-back is considered a key part of both the club's and new head coach Matthias Jaissle's plans for the upcoming season, as the German tactician prepares for his St. James' Park rebuild.
Injury update and recovery
Chronicle Live reports that Hall and fellow defender Fabian Schar have been given time off following the training camp to recover from their respective injuries. Hall has been following a separate training programme in Spain, focusing on upper-body work.
Hall will not feature for Jaissle in his first match in charge against Valencia this evening.
Manchester United's interest
Manchester United are believed to be keen on signing a new full-back this summer, with Carrick holding Hall in high regard. Recent reports suggest that the defender would welcome a move to Old Trafford if a fee could be agreed, but Newcastle have taken a firm stance following a turbulent summer of departures.
The Reds have also been linked with a potential move for Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas. However, the La Liga club have made it clear that the 19-year-old will only be sold if his £13.7 million release clause is triggered. Barcelona have also been associated with a move for Salinas, having had an offer turned down earlier this summer.
Luke Shaw remains United's first-choice left-back, with Carrick opting to deploy Patrick Dorgu in a more attacking role, and the club are eager to strengthen that area of the defence.
