Newcastle United Take Big Decision On The Future Of This 29-Year-Old Player: Why It Is The Right Choice For Now? | OneFootball

Newcastle United have opened the Premier League season in uneven fashion, and that lack of flow has sparked questions around several areas of the team. Joelinton sits at the centre of that discussion.

He has started regularly in Eddie Howe’s midfield trio with Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, but his performances have drifted below the level supporters have come to expect.

The Brazilian midfielder has looked short of sharpness at times, and his influence has dipped during key stretches of matches. Meanwhile, Lewis Miley and Jacob Ramsey continue to press for opportunities, which adds further pressure on Joelinton’s starting spot.

Newcastle United want to keep Joelinton at the club

However, Journalist Pete O’Rourke has stated that Newcastle have no intention of entertaining any offers for Joelinton. The club recognises his importance and believes his recent form reflects a temporary dip rather than a long-term decline.

He found the net in the midweek win over Athletic Club, and that moment could help him rediscover his stride. Eddie Howe still views the 29-year-old as a central figure in the team’s midfield structure, as his physical presence, ball-carrying, and ability to disrupt opposition play remain difficult to replace. The Magpies plan to stay patient and trust that confidence will return with minutes and rhythm. Meanwhile, reports have also revealed that Real Madrid want to offer €50 million to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali.

“There’s no doubting that Joelinton’s not been at his best so far this season, he’s struggled for form and fitness. That will have been a bit of a concern, but I don’t think it’s a major issue for Newcastle.

“I still think he’s a key man for Eddie Howe’s side. He’s built a really strong partnership with Guimaraes and Tonali, and he offers something different to both of those. Joelinton’s had a bit of a dip in form, but he’ll be hoping that that goal against Athletic Club in the Champions League will give him a springboard, maybe to kick on now.

“I don’t think they’ll be rushing in to make any decisions on Joelinton and his long-term future. I still think he’s got a key role to play for them. For me, if you’ve got Bruno, Tonali and Joelinton in midfield and when everybody’s fit and firing, that’s one of the strongest midfields in the Premier League and even the Champions League.”

Keeping Joelinton makes sense

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Joelinton of Newcastle United celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Newcastle United FC and Athletic Club at St James’ Park on November 05, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Newcastle United tied Joelinton to a new long-term contract till 2028 in April 2024, and holding on to him aligns with both stability and ambition. The club will protect his value, while Howe will keep his role clear. If the Magpies sell him during a period of uneven form, it would make little sense, especially given Financial Fair Play concerns that push clubs to guard their core assets.

Joelinton fits Howe’s system, offering strong pressing, directness, and aerial presence. He supports both defence and attack, and his flexibility helps across several areas of the pitch. If Newcastle United aim to challenge consistently, keeping their proven midfield figure remains the correct choice.