New move lined up for NUFC talent as Shola Ameobi cancels successful loan spell?

Newcastle United have confirmed that highly-rated defender Kelland Watts has been recalled from his loan spell with Stevenage.

After a successful spell across 2018/19 – where he was an ever present and captained the side on one occasion – the 19-year-old rejoined Stevenage in August on a season-long loan, but it’s been cut short today following discussions with ‘loan manager’ Shola Ameobi.

It’s a slight surprise given he’s been a key player for them and regular starter for 18 months now, but makes you wonder if he could have another loan move lined up this month.

After such a convincing spell in League Two, are there League One clubs eyeing a loan move until the end of the season? It would explain his recall.

Here’s what the club have had to say in the last few moments, with an official statement confirming he’s been recalled:

‘Newcastle United have recalled Kell Watts from his loan spell with Stevenage.

‘The 20-year-old, who signed a three-year contract with his boyhood club earlier this season, had joined the League Two outfit at the start of the 2018/19 campaign on a season-long loan and was an ever-present for the Boro after making 20 appearances, including four cup games.

‘Watts made his first team debut for the Magpies in their Premier League Asia Trophy clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers in July and the England under-19 international can play in defence and midfield.

‘He returned to Newcastle at the end of the year for some of his rehabilitation period after hurting himself in Stevenage’s FA Cup tie against Peterborough United in November.

‘Despite briefly heading back to the Lamex Stadium, Watts has now returned to St. James’ Park following discussions with Newcastle’s loan coordinator Shola Ameobi and Stevenage head coach Graham Westley.’

The 6ft 3′ centre-back – who can also play in midfield – is already an England U-19 international and featured for the senior team over pre-season, playing in our Asia Cup defeat to Wolves over the summer.

He also signed a new three-year deal with the club before joining Stevenage on loan, appearing to be one of youngsters we have high hopes for.

It wouldn’t make a great deal of sense to recall him from a successful loan stint if a superior move wasn’t lined up, so it’ll be interesting to see if he completes a temporary move elsewhere in the coming weeks.

(Fancy writing for us? Get in touch at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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