Your Newcastle United headlines for Monday, July 25.
Howe open to Longstaff loan
Eddie Howe has left the door open for Matty Longstaff to head out on loan. Mansfield Town were the beneficiaries of the 22-year-old’s services earlier this year as they reached the League Two play-off final.
The impressive five-month stint was much-needed after a disastrous spell at Aberdeen earlier in the season. Speaking to ChronicleLive, the Toon boss admitted another loan move could be best for all parties.
"I think (Matty) is in a slightly different position with the competition in midfield because it’s such a strong unit for us,” Howe said. "We may look to maybe open the loan market to him again.
READ MORE: Newcastle United announce new contract for Emil Krafth during stay in Portugal
"What he has shown in pre-season is a brilliant attitude. He’s brilliant around the group, loves Newcastle - he’s Newcastle through and through.
"He’s got a great relationship with his brother and the lads love him. We would open the door to him to maybe get football for his own benefit. We’ll wait and see."
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Eusebio Cup on offer
Newcastle will be competing for the Eusebio Cup when they take on Benfica tomorrow night. The final pre-season fixture on the road sees the Magpies take on As Águias at the Estadio da Luz on Tuesday - nearly a decade on from their Europa League quarter-final defeat.
Benfica host the annual cup to commemorate the Portuguese legend - who presented the trophy until his passing in 2014. Eusebio was no stranger to Tyneside, having contested a pre-season friendly against Newcastle at St James’ Park in August 1971.
The prospect of winning silverware - albeit trivial - could be an omen for the Magpies in the coming years.
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Howe wants more signings
The gaffer insists he is “pleased” with his current squad but wants more additions before the window slams shut. Focus in recent weeks has switched to outgoings, with Ciaran Clark, Dwight Gayle and Jeff Hendrick following Isaac Hayden and Freddie Woodman out the door.
Just under six weeks remain to bolster the squad for the upcoming campaign. Speaking at Newcastle’s pre-season camp in Portugal, Howe reiterated that the recruitment team are doing all they can.
"Yes, we are now going into an area where we are still looking,” he said. “We want to improve the squad. We are really pleased with what we have done but we know we have got more to do.
“But it has got to be the right one, in the right position. So it is not simple. We are trying to do that as much as we can. We are working very, very hard. If I am not here talking to you or taking training, I am working on recruitment.
"A lot of work has gone into it, but it is hopefully going to be worth it because, as you say, the next move is probably one of the most important I will make."
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