Not Just Jamaal Lascelles: Three Players with Combined Over 400 Appearances Set to Leave Newcastle United in 2026 – Contracts List
A deep dive into the Newcastle United players whose contracts are winding down at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Jamaal Lascelles is bidding farewell to Newcastle United after nearly 12 years of service at the club.
The 32-year-old, who joined in 2014, is reportedly on the verge of a move to Leicester City, capping off a tumultuous journey that spanned the Championship lows to Champions League highs. However, he’s far from the only seasoned Magpie facing an uncertain future at St. James’ Park. Three other key veterans are entering the final stretch of their deals, with a combined tally of over 400 appearances for the club.
On the transfer front, the January window seems poised to close quietly for Newcastle, with no major incomings on the horizon. Club executives remain cautious amid Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) constraints, which have plagued the Saudi-era rebuild. Indications from Tyneside suggest resources are being conserved for a busier summer, with moves only pursued if an unmissable opportunity arises – a prospect that grows slimmer by the day.
While transfers remain unpredictable, contract situations are more within the club’s grasp. Currently, four senior first-team stalwarts, including Lascelles, are slated to depart this summer unless extensions are negotiated. All in their 30s, these players present tough calls for the decision-makers at St. James’ Park, especially considering the hefty price tags on potential successors. Who deserves to stay? Who might follow Lascelles through the exit? Here’s a full profile of the contracts in question.
1. Fabian Schär
The Swiss international, now 34, has been a rock at the heart of Newcastle’s defense since arriving from Deportivo La Coruña in 2018 for a bargain £3 million. Schär has racked up 211 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, contributing 18 goals – including memorable strikes like his thunderbolt against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. His ball-playing ability and leadership have been pivotal in Eddie Howe’s setup, and he even lifted the EFL Cup in 2025 as part of the winning side.
However, with his contract expiring in June 2026, questions linger. Recent reports suggest any renewal hinges on whether Newcastle can secure a younger replacement, as Schär’s role has occasionally been challenged by emerging talents like Malick Thiaw. At his age, the club may opt for a refresh, but his experience could still prove invaluable in a squad pushing for European spots. 20 21 8
2. Kieran Trippie
At 35, the England veteran right-back has been a transformative figure since joining from Atlético Madrid in January 2022. Trippier has made 108 Premier League outings for Newcastle, providing 20 assists and becoming a set-piece specialist. His leadership shone through as he captained the side during much of the 2022/23 campaign, helping secure a top-four finish. With 54 international caps, including a World Cup semi-final goal, his pedigree is undeniable.
Yet, reports indicate his time at Newcastle is nearing a “natural conclusion.” The club is eyeing a full-back overhaul, and with his deal up in June 2026, an exit seems likely. European interest has swirled around Trippier, and while he’s still contributing this season (24 appearances so far), the Magpies may look to younger options to sustain their ambitions. 25 26 3
3. Jamaal Lascelles
The club captain’s departure feels like the end of an era. Lascelles, who signed from Nottingham Forest in 2014, has amassed over 250 total appearances for Newcastle, including 220 in the league. He’s been a symbol of resilience, guiding the team through relegation, promotion, and into European competition. Despite a serious knee injury in 2024, he’s featured five times this season, showcasing his enduring spirit.
Now set for Leicester City, Lascelles’ exit marks a significant shift. His leadership and defensive grit will be missed, but at 32, the move could offer him regular playtime. Newcastle fans will undoubtedly give him a hero’s send-off if this proves to be his final campaign. 15 19 5
4. Emil Krafth
The Swedish defender, 31, joined from Amiens in 2019 and has provided versatile cover across the backline, making 84 league appearances. He’s scored once for the club and bounced back impressively from a major knee injury in 2022. With nearly 50 international caps, Krafth brings reliability and depth.
His contract also expires in June 2026, and while he’s played a supporting role this season, interest from clubs like FC Copenhagen has emerged. Newcastle may weigh whether to extend or part ways as part of a broader defensive turnover. 30 33 8
These four players represent a wealth of experience, but their potential departures signal Newcastle’s intent to evolve. With PSR in mind, freeing up wages could fund fresh talent. Fans, what are your thoughts – who stays, and who goes?