Newcastle set their sights on Chelsea's Lewis Hall
Newcastle are lining up a move for rising Chelsea star Lewis Hall.
Newcastle United are actively working on finalising a deal to sign Chelsea's promising young talent Lewis Hall.
Chelsea have made the decision to allow Hall to depart, initially considering a loan move. Crystal Palace had been close to securing a deal for his season-long loan.
However, Newcastle have now entered the scene and Hall is enthusiastic about making the switch to the North East.
Despite having already added former Chelsea prospect Tino Livramento to their roster this summer, manager Eddie Howe seeks additional depth in the full-back position and views Hall as the perfect fit.
Chelsea have set a valuation of over £30million for the 18-year-old English Under-21 star, who is comfortable both in midfield and as a left-back. Negotiations are underway between Newcastle and Chelsea to reach an agreement.
Given Newcastle's concerns about Financial Fair Play regulations, their preference is to acquire Hall on loan with a mandatory purchase option in 2024. However, the feasibility of such an arrangement is contingent upon Chelsea's approval.
Hall has personal ties to Newcastle and grew up as a supporter of the Magpies. He made his Premier League debut against Newcastle last November. However, his standing within the team has diminished under the management of Mauricio Pochettino.
With Ben Chilwell as the primary choice for the left-back role, Dutch talent Ian Maatsen, who has returned from a successful loan spell at Burnley, has moved ahead of Hall in the pecking order.