Newcastle star Joelinton may never play for club again after injury blow

19 January 2024 , 08:34

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Joelinton's long-term future at Newcastle is far from certain (Image: PA)

Joelinton may not play another game for Newcastle if he is ruled out for the remainder of the season through injury as a result of a contract stand-off.

The popular Brazilian, 27, has thrived at St James' Park after being repackaged as a midfielder and established himself as an integral figure in Eddie Howe's side. However, Joelinton is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining a thigh injury in the Magpies' 3-0 win over arch-rivals Sunderland in the FA Cup earlier this month.

With surgery planned for next week, it's unlikely Joelinton will play again this season - and given he has just 18 months remaining on his current deal, there's every chance he could be sold before he plays again.

That's according to a new report from The Mail, who claim that the former Hoffenheim star's current wage demands are well beyond what Newcastle are willing to pay. Furthermore, it's outlined that Joelinton's long-term future is in doubt if a compromise cannot be reached.

The summer transfer window would represent Newcastle's final chance to cash in on Joelinton - who joined them in a £40million deal back in 2019 - as he would be free to negotiate with clubs from overseas as of next January.

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Losing the midfielder would be a bitter blow for Howe, who is said to be determined to keep hold of Joelinton. That may be easier said than done, though, given his demands would see him become the club's highest earner.

A shortlist of potential midfield targets has been drawn up in the wake of Joelinton's injury. That list includes Bournemouth midfielder Phillip Billing, who was signed by Howe during his time on the south coast.

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Joelinton is set to undergo surgery for a thigh issue next week (Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips is another player who is known to have admirers at St James' Park and, crucially, is understood to be available this month.

However, the Premier League champion's demands, said to be in the region of £7m, for a six-month loan are putting off his potential suitors. Newcastle would prefer to do a deal without a loan fee but with an option to purchase the England midfielder in the summer instead.

Newcastle are currently preparing for next weekend's FA Cup fourth-round tie against Fulham. They resume their Premier League campaign with a tricky trip to Aston Villa at the end of the month.

Dan Marsh