In a recent report, The Northern Echo claimed that Newcastle United are unlikely to let Jamaal Lascelles leave despite recent interest from Saudi Arabia outfit Al-Shabab. It has been stated that the Magpies are unwilling to entertain any offers for the English centre-back this month.
Lascelles’ Sporadic Role At St. James’ Park Last Season
Lascelles was a reliable presence in Eddie Howe’s match-day squad last season but struggled to earn regular playing time at the Tyneside club. The English talent played in just 11 matches for the Magpies in the previous campaign, scoring one goal in various competitions.
The 29-year-old made most of his appearances off the bench which explains why he only averaged 0.1 tackles and 1.9 clearances per game in the Premier League. He was accurate when interchanging possession with his teammates from the back based on his pass success rate of 84.9% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
Lascelles is under contract at Newcastle until the summer of 2024. Thus, the Magpies would have to try and cash in on him this January or else risk losing him as a free agent at the end of this campaign.
Newcastle United Are Unlikely To Let Lascelles Leave: Good Decision By Eddie Howe?
Lascelles is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his side on the defensive third of the pitch. He usually clears his lines when in danger of being caught out at the back.
The English talent is a good passer of the ball as well when he is playing well on the pitch. He has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and could be a valuable presence in Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s squad this season.
Thus, it seems like the Magpies have made the right call by not entertaining any offers for Lascelles this month. The Tyneside club would be better off keeping hold of him until January before deciding on whether to cash in on him or let him run down the remainder of his contract.
Lascelles is good enough to help Newcastle challenge across all fronts and might even aid their quest to win a major trophy this season.
