Newcastle United’s academy is undergoing some changes this summer, with several prospects being informed that their time with the club will come to an end, according to the Daily Mail.
Among them are forward Michael Ndiweni, 20, and winger Amadou Diallo, 21, who both made appearances in Premier League matches this season, notably featuring in Newcastle’s memorable 4-1 victory over Chelsea in November.
Despite their contributions, both Ndiweni and Diallo have been notified by the club that they will not be offered new contracts beyond this season, while Scotland U-21 midfielder Lucas de Bolle, Dylan Stephenson, Kyle Crossley, former Spurs defender Jordan Hackett, and goalkeepers Jude Smith and Will Brown will also be released.
Diallo made the bench for Newcastle’s recent 1-1 draw against Everton but didn’t get the chance to play, while Ndiweni is currently on loan to Scottish League One side Annan Athletic.
Despite making Premier League appearances, the players have not shown enough promise to progress at the club.
Senior games are seen as the final chance for a youth player to impress and it is worth mentioning that these players were given the chance because of their physicality too.
Amidst the departures, there are also signs of continuity and potential. James Huntley and Ellis Stanton have been offered new deals, indicating their importance to the club’s plans.
Huntley, hailing from Ashington, made an impression with four appearances in the UEFA Youth League this season, bagging a goal against Dortmund. Stanton made five appearances for Newcastle’s U-19 team in the Youth League.
The performances of Huntley and Stanton have caught the eye of those involved in the youth setup, suggesting that they could soon find themselves in Eddie Howe’s squad.
The gaffer has shown willing to embed the next generation of talent at Newcastle United in his time at the club. Could they break in?
