Transfer: Eddie Howe Confirms Jonjo Shelvey Is Set To Leave Newcastle

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed that midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is closing in on joining Nottingham Forest before Tuesday's transfer deadline.

News had earlier made the rounds on social media that Nottingham Forest reached an agreement with Newcastle to sign Shelvey who spent seven years with The Magpies.

It was reported that Shelvey who has his medical tests booked at Forest was offered a contract that will keep him at The Tricky Trees until June 2025.

Newcastle have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest for Jonjo Shelvey & the player will sign a 2.5 year deal today after completing a medical in Nottingham. #nufc

— Craig Hope (@CraigHope_DM) January 30, 2023

Speaking ahead of Tuesday's EFL Cup second-leg semi-finals clash with Southampton, Howe revealed that Shelvey is in talks with Forest to seal a permanent move.

"Jonjo, I believe, is talking to Nottingham Forest," he said. "I don’t know at what stage that is currently.

"Jonjo has been a huge player for this football club over the last seven years.

"He has been a very important part of my squad since I’ve been here. Unfortunately, he’s had injuries this season.

"Certainly I would not want to lose him but similar to Chris Wood I have to understand the player’s wishes with his contract coming to an end this summer."

Howe added that he will be sad to see Shelvey leave Newcastle considering his immense contribution to the colours of the club.

"I’m sure Jonjo has thought long and hard from his perspective about what he wants," said Eddie who has his sight set on reaching the EFL Cup finals.

"Again, I can’t speak highly enough of him. He was huge last season in us staying in the division.

"He was the focal point of the team and he did a brilliant job.

"Unfortunately this season we haven’t seen him due to injury but last season is not forgotten on me and that’s why we have a really good relationship. I will be sad to see him go."