Newcastle announce two exits - £15m man leaves on loan-to-buy and Geordie talent departs

Newcastle United have confirmed that Jamal Lewis has completed a loan move to Watford, while Geordie centre-back Kell Watts has left for Wigan.

Lewis joins the Hornets on an initial loan, which includes an option to buy for the Championship side. He featured in pre-season wins over Gateshead and Rangers but has played no part in our Summer Series games in the USA.

His exit will create additional space on the wage bill, with Karl Darlow also due to sign for Leeds in the next 24 hours after undergoing his medical at Elland Road. It's a shame to see how things have worked out for Lewis following his £15m switch from Norwich three years ago, but a good move for the player that probably suits all parties.

As for Watts, the 23-year-old is out of contract next summer but has joined League One side Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan. With this in mind, he's all but gone and has followed in the footsteps of Ciaran Clark; who joined Sheffield United on loan last summer during the final year of his contract.

Good luck to both. Hopefully this flurry of outgoings raises funds and boosts our bid to bring in new recruits of our own.