Five Newcastle first-team players will leave the club this summer.
Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett, Loris Karius, Kell Watts and Jeff Hendrick will leave St. James’ Park when their contracts expire on June 30.
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The long-standing duo Dummett and Ritchie have played 428 competitive matches for the club between them.
Dummett is currently the club’s longest serving player, having originally come from the Wizards’ Academy, where he joined 23 years ago at the age of nine.
Karius has now made two competitive appearances for the first team since his move in January 2023.
He played in the 2023 Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester United and was also present in the 4-1 Premier League defeat to Arsenal in February.
Hendrick and fellow youth player Watts have spent most of their time with the club on loan in the Football League.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to every single player.
leave the club this summer.
“They have all given so much to the cause in their own way and I know our supporters join me in wishing them every success in the next step of their careers.
“It is easy to judge players by their looks and goals but the contribution that Paul and Matt in particular have made to the club over many years has truly been immeasurable.
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“They have had a huge impact on our progress as a team and as a club.
“They have been incredible to work with as people and players. Their commitment, professionalism and dressing room leadership during my time here has been first class and they will undoubtedly bring quality and experience to their next clubs.
“It is also a significant moment for Kell, who has been with the club since the age of eight. Kell is a top professional with an outstanding attitude and his next club will be incredibly lucky to have him.
“I wish the players and their families all the best for the future.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle are pressing for an answer regarding a possible deal for Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo this summer.
The defender’s contract expires on June 30 and he is available on a free transfer, although Chelsea and Manchester United are also interested.