ANDROS TOWNSEND will report for the start of pre-season training with Newcastle on July 1 – but there is very little chance of the England international remaining with the Magpies beyond the end of the transfer window.

While Newcastle are yet to receive a formal offer for Townsend, the presence of a £10.5m relegation release clause in the winger’s contract means there is an acceptance that he is unlikely to remain on Tyneside for a season in the Championship.

West Ham and Crystal Palace have expressed an interest in acquiring Townsend’s services following Newcastle’s relegation, with Liverpool and Manchester City also having emerged as potential suitors in recent days.

A firm approach from either club would be difficult for Townsend to turn down, and for all that the 24-year-old has spoken enthusiastically of remaining with the Magpies, the lure of playing in Europe would be extremely strong.

Having missed out on a place in Euro 2016 when he was dropped from Roy Hodgson’s provisional squad, Townsend is determined to do everything he can to enhance his international prospects next season.

Rafael Benitez would love to keep Townsend at St James’ Park, but while the Spaniard has publicly insisted he does not have to sell anyone, he has also acknowledged that it will be difficult to keep seasoned internationals if they are offered moves to one of Europe’s major leagues.

The same applies to Moussa Sissoko, who has been highly praised in France for his performance in Sunday’s goalless draw with Switzerland at Euro 2016, and Georginio Wijnaldum, who is interesting Everton and Roma amongst a number of other clubs.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have been confirmed as a seeded team for the EFL Cup – formerly the Capital One Cup – and will therefore receive a bye to the second round. The first-round draw is due to take place this afternoon.