Matthias Jaissle has made it clear he wants to assess his players before making transfer decisions, and with the window closing on September 1, several first-team stars have a point to prove in this weekend's Visit Malta Weekender fixtures against Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg.
Newcastle's squad in transition
Jaissle inherited a squad in transition, with young talent added to a group that needed new blood, but the club has also lost Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon, and Kieran Trippier. The German has spoken of the need to recruit in key areas, highlighted by the 3-1 friendly defeat to Everton on Wednesday night, with United hopeful of at least two more arrivals.
Exits are still possible, and Jaissle will have to pass judgement on certain players before September 1. With two games on the horizon, United stars have one last chance to impress on the pitch before the season-opener against Liverpool.
Six players with something to prove
Joe Willock
The former Arsenal man has been the subject of transfer interest from Turkey and has not started either of Jaissle's two games in charge. Newcastle want around £17m for Willock, but an eye-catching display this weekend could change perceptions.
Sven Botman
After signing a new contract, it's highly unlikely Newcastle would sell Botman, but his pre-season has been patchy at best. With Dan Burn back in the fold, Botman knows he will have a fight on his hands for a starting spot against Liverpool.
Nick Woltemade
The popular German needs to start delivering consistently. Jaissle may hand him his wish of playing as a No 10 with a striker ahead of him, but Woltemade has to show he can deliver, with Jacob Ramsey among those who can play that role.
Jacob Murphy
Murphy continues to play an important role at United, particularly in leadership, but Anthony Elanga appears to have the edge for a starting position. With Everton's interest cooled, United could yet cash in on the 31-year-old, who has one year remaining on his contract.
Joelinton
Newcastle sorely missed the Brazilian last season, but should United sign an experienced anchor man, his place could be in jeopardy. Rumoured interest from Saudi Arabia didn't materialise into offers, but a serious bid could cause Newcastle to think twice.
Will Osula
The young Danish striker lost his cheerleaders in Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones and must start again in proving his worth. With plenty of transfer interest, if United sign a new centre-forward, Osula could make way, but goals this weekend may delay that decision.
