- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Newcastle United are not having the best of seasons.
Under Eddie Howe last season, Newcastle United finished in the top four of the Premier League table.
The Magpies were expected to build on that success and push on this season.
However, Newcastle have failed to do that. They have taken a step back.
Newcastle finished at the bottom of their UEFA Champions League group and not going to end up in the top four of the Premier League table this season.
There has not been much for Newcastle fans to celebrate in recent weeks, especially with the future of star players Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak under doubt.
Joelinton stance on new Newcastle United contract
But, now Newcastle supporters do have some good news. HITC understands that Joelinton is close to finalising a new deal at the Premier League club after fresh talks reached a breakthrough.
As HITC revealed in January, talks had broken down between the player’s representatives and Newcastle.
However, lines of communication remained open, and there was a renewed effort in March to get a deal done. And, things have gone well.
Steve Nickson key to Joelinton deal
Sources have told HITC that chief scout Steve Nickson, who has stepped in to help oversee some of the duties of former sporting director Dan Ashworth, as he is on gardening leave after revealing his ambition to join Manchester United, has taken a prominent role in the talks.
Joelinton’s current deal is due to expire in 2025 and Newcastle were facing the prospect of selling the £40 million (Sky Sports) Brazilian midfielder this summer if a new deal had not been agreed.
But, now the new deal, believed to be for four years, is close to being signed.
The 27-year-old Brazil international midfielder has scored 18 goals and given seven assists in 152 appearances in the Premier League so far in his career.
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