The 13-star players in line to leave Newcastle United at the end of the season – and five who have

Ahead of the remaining eight Premier League games, Eddie Howe’s side is locked in a Champions League qualification battle, and they’re currently in driving seat.

Fourth-place Newcastle entertains fifth-place Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park on Sunday (kick-off 2 pm) and knows a win will take them six points above their visitors still with a game in hand to play.

Even if United’s top-four mission falls short, a top-six spot looks even more certain with eight matches remaining. Next season, United face competing in Europe, the Premier League. Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

Howe has been honest in admitting that his squad isn’t necessarily deep enough to deal with the demands that two games a week bring.

That will – Financial Fair Play permitting – likely see United delve into the transfer market to add depth and quality to help compete on all four fronts.

On the flip side of that, it remains likely that several players will depart St James’ Park, including those currently on loan at Football League clubs.

Here, NewcastleWorld takes a look at the 13 players likely to leave at the end of the campaign – and five others that could

1. Mark Gillespie – likely

Gillespie hasn’t made a competitive appearance for Newcastle since September 2020. He’s the club’s fourth-choice goalkeeper and is out of contract this summer.

2. Jeff Hendrick – likely

Hendrick is due to return to Tyneside this summer when his loan spell at Reading comes to an end but the chances of him staying around are very, very slim.

3. Loris Karius – likely

Karius’ only appearance for United happened to be their first cup in 24 years. As a third choice, the German may look for a No.1 opportunity elsewhere when his contract expires this summer. A move to Milan has been rumored. Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS

4. Isaac Hayden – likely

Should Norwich City seal promotion to the Premier League then Hayden’s loan deal will become permanent. The Canaries are three points outside the playoffs with eight games to go. Photo: Nathan Stirk

5. Martin Dubravka – likely

Dubravka’s Newcastle career looked to be over last summer when he joined Man United on loan before a surprise recall in January. It’s clear the 33-year-old Slovakian still wants to a No.1, but it’ll be hard for him to displace Nick Pope. Photo: Stu Forster

6. Paul Dummett – likely

While the Geordie left-back remains an important figure behind the scenes, he’s made just one appearance this season (Tranmere in the Carabao Cup). He’s out of contract in the summer.