Newcastle line up loan moves for Sean Neave and Leo Shahar - Report
Newcastle United may be busy searching for signings and potential senior sales, but loan moves for Academy talents is another important part of our summer business.
We've already seen Antonio Cordero head back to Spain, and others will soon follow as we look to secure first team football for some of our teenage talents needing to make the step up.
Two of those in that category include Sean Neave and Leo Shahar; the 19-year-old duo who both featured in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Gateshead to open pre-season.
Toon talents primed for loans?
Newcastle United are exploring season-long loan moves for teenage talents Sean Neave and Leo Shahar.
While moves away may come later in the window, with both players currently part of our pre-season programme, The Athletic report that the pair could depart for senior minutes away from Tyneside.
Neave, a tall striker with good technique, netted 10 goals in 14 Premier League 2 games last term, while Shahar has shown strong progression since sealing a move from Wolves in 2023.
Moves to the EFL feel inevitable, although it's vital the club find the right temporary home, ensuring they have a realistic route to game time and a healthy environment to develop as players and young men.
Neave needs to get stronger - Stockdale
Speaking back in April, Under-21 coach Robbie Stockdale spoke openly about Sean Neave's development, insisting he must get stronger to cope with the demands of Premier League football.
He certainly has the height, and his finishing has been hailed by Howe, who has seen plenty of him in training, but adding muscle and athleticism to his tall and slender frame may be the next step.
“It’s difficult because the step up is huge. It’s a different level of competition - but Sean just needs to keep improving, he needs to get stronger and he needs to get more physically strong.
“These games over a period of time will help him with his stamina and I think we hope the next stage for all of our players is first-team football, wherever that may be.”
Two ones to watch in the coming weeks, with the pair likely to feature in upcoming games against Bristol City and Valencia before a loan move is pursued.
