Here are the latest Newcastle United headlines for Sunday, July 9, 2023.
Duo sign new deals
Newcastle United have confirmed two contract extensions with Paul Dummett and Loris Karius both agreeing terms on one-year deals. The Magpies previously confirmed the duo had been offered new deals, and the announcement was made on social media on Sunday afternoon.
Newcastle's first-team squad reported for their first day of pre-season on Sunday, with their first friendly against Gateshead FC less than a week later. News of the contract extension was released with a picture of head coach Eddie Howe standing besides both players at the club's training ground.
It is the second extension Karius has agreed since signing an initial short-term deal on Tyneside last September. The former Liverpool number one's appearance in the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester United is still the 30-year-old's only appearance for the club to date.
Saint-Maximin back 'home'
Allan Saint-Maximin has posted he is 'back home' upon his return to Newcastle United amid ongoing speculation surrounding the forward's future. The Magpies' pursuit of Leicester City forward Harvey Barnes has cast further doubt on the number 10's role at St James' Park heading into the new season.
Saint-Maximin remains a fans' favourite for his contributions in a black-and-white shirt, most notably playing a starring role in his first two seasons with the club to help Steve Bruce's side steer clear of relegation danger. However, the 26-year-old has seen his influence at the club wane since the appointment of Eddie Howe in November 2021.
Saint-Maximin began last season in blistering form, tormenting Kyle Walker in the thrilling 3-3 home draw with Manchester City before scoring in a sensational equaliser at Wolves. However, hamstring issues and the team's form in his absence meant the forward was reduced to a bench role for much of the campaign.
Howe has publicly stressed his desire to keep Saint-Maximin at the club ahead of the new campaign, although the head coach admitted the decision could come down to the player himself. Recent reports suggest Newcastle could be open to offers for the former Nice forward, with Saudi Arabia cited as a potential destination.
