Newcastle United will enter 2026 with six senior players approaching the end of their contracts, and The Athletic’s Chris Waugh reports that several long-serving figures are expected to move on as the club reshape the squad for the next phase of their project.
Waugh writes that Jamaal Lascelles “appears likely to leave,” noting that the club captain has made only two appearances all season and was omitted from the Champions League squad — a clear indication of his reduced role under Eddie Howe.
Kieran Trippier, now 35, is another whose exit is anticipated. According to Waugh, “it seems like his Newcastle career is coming to a natural conclusion,” with the club planning a refresh at full-back and Trippier’s contract expiring in the summer.
A decision on Fabian Schar remains unresolved. Waugh notes that Malick Thiaw has taken over Schar’s role and that the veteran defender is already 33, adding that any renewal “may depend on whether Newcastle are confident of signing a younger replacement next summer.”
In goal, the futures of barely-used John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie are tied to potential arrivals. Waugh says their situations “may depend on incomings,” with both out of contract and neither positioned as part of Newcastle’s long-term plans.
Emil Krafth is also approaching the end of his deal, and Waugh confirms his contract is up in the summer as the club consider defensive turnover.