Newcastle United have officially entered the 2026/27 season, with July marking the start of a new campaign. The Magpies announced that six players would leave the club when they published their retained list earlier this year, and those players officially departed on July 1. Now, eight players have entered the final year of their contracts, with deals set to expire on June 30, 2027.
Defensive Veterans Under Scrutiny
Two prominent names on the list are centre-halves Dan Burn and Fabian Schar, both aged 34. Burn recently returned from representing England at the World Cup, and Newcastle hold an option to extend his deal for an additional year. Schar has just signed a fresh one-year contract. Both will compete with younger defenders Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman for starting places this season. Their performance levels will be closely monitored against the high standards they have previously set at St James' Park.
Goalkeeper and Midfield Futures Uncertain
Nick Pope and Joe Willock face uncertain futures. Pope has been a fantastic goalkeeper since joining from Burnley in 2022, but his form dipped last season, with mistakes creeping into his game. Newcastle are expected to sign another goalkeeper, despite already bringing in French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen. Pope has been linked with moves to Leeds United and his boyhood club Ipswich Town. Willock, who has been excellent since joining in 2021, has not seen as much game time as he would like and could attract interest from several Premier League clubs.
Squad Players and Likely Departures
Jacob Murphy, 31, has been an invaluable squad player and is expected to remain, but his performance levels will be assessed before any extension. Mark Gillespie, the fourth-choice goalkeeper, has been a valuable behind-the-scenes presence and could see his contract renewed. However, Harrison Ashby, 24, and Joe White, 23, are likely to leave Tyneside. Neither has forced their way into the team since their moves, and unimpressive loan spells at Bradford City suggest Newcastle will look to move them on this summer or let them leave on a free transfer next year.
