Could Newcastle shoot themselves in the foot with Haidara and Gamez decisions?

Follow us on Google Discover

Newcastle United will release Massadio Haidara and Jesus Gamez, but seem unlikely to sign Luke Shaw from Premier League rivals Manchester United.

If it seemed that Newcastle United needed a left-back in the summer transfer window, they definitely do now.

According to the Chronicle, The Magpies are expected to release the seldom-seen duo Massadio Haidara and Jesus Gamez once their contracts run out at the end of the season.

On paper, they will not be missed. Both Haidara and Gamez have struggled with injuries in the last two years and, while the Frenchman has not made a single Premier League appearance this season, his ex-Atletico Madrid teammate has featured in just two domestic outings.

But, on the flipside, their departures will leave Paul Dummett as the club’s only senior left-back.

That puts a fair amount of pressure on Newcastle managing to sign reinforcements this summer, which is easier said than done considering how tight owner Mike Ashley tends to keep the purse strings at St James’ Park.

As stated by the Chronicle, Rafa Benitez is a big fan of Manchester United outcast Luke Shaw and would love to bring him to Tyneside this summer, having failed with a loan bid in January.

The Sun, however, claims that Jose Mourinho’s side would demand £28 million – a fee that would make Shaw Newcastle’s record signing by a considerable margin – so the chances of the former Southampton flyer moving to the North East look slim.

But Newcastle surely must have a cheap alternative lined up if they are so willing to dispense with Gamez and Haidara.