ROSS Wilson says keeping Lewis Hall was among Newcastle's top priorities in the summer transfer window after the left-back signed a new long-term contract at St James' Park.
Hall was wanted by Manchester United in the summer but the Magpies were adamant the 22-year-old was not for sale and was a key part of their plans for the future.
Hall has now put pen to paper on a new deal, committing to Newcastle until 2031 - and told of his belief that the Magpies can go on to achieve "really big things".
He said: I'm absolutely delighted. It's a really proud moment. It's an absolute pleasure to play for this club and to represent the supporters. I know how much it means to them.
“The fanbase and the support we get here, whether it's at St. James’ Park or away, it's the best in the league in my opinion. To be able to bring joy to their faces, it's a big thing for me.
“I obviously have a family connection with the club, which is incredibly important to us all. One of the main reasons I play is to make my family proud, and I know how much it means to them to watch me playing for Newcastle United.
“It's a really good place to be. It's really pleasing with how we've started the season, especially with the new gaffer and coaching staff coming in, and I think we can go on to achieve really big things.”
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Hall was identified as a leading target for Manchester United this summer but Newcastle made it clear that he had no intention of losing the left-back.
Wilson, Newcastle's sporting director, said: “Lewis has been a key part of our planning. We were always clear that his future was with us, and in the context of our business this summer, retaining him and extending his contract was right up there in terms of importance.
"We've had really positive conversations throughout this process, and agreeing a new contract always felt like a natural next step. That says a lot about his character and commitment, and he has been consistent in his performances and consistent in how he has conducted himself. We see a player who feels at home here, connected to his teammates, our staff and our supporters.
"He is already a top player, and it's a real source of pride that his performances in a Newcastle shirt have earned him international recognition with England. We firmly believe there's even more to come – for us and on the international stage. I'm delighted we've been able to extend his contract long term.”
Hall has made more than 100 appearances for Newcastle since first arriving at his boyhood club in August 2023. He had to be patient after first signing on loan but Newcastle were always enormously excited by the youngster's potential and he's established himself as one of the Premier League's best left-backs.
He has made four England appearances and was desperately unlucky to miss out on a place in the World Cup squad.
Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle said: “I have been impressed with Lewis since I arrived. He is a very important player for us and for what we are building here, so this is exciting news.
“The combination of his ability and his profile make him an ideal fit for our squad, and his mentality is exactly what you want in a young player. He wants to learn every day and he wants to be better in every match.
“Lewis covers ground in a way that few players can. He defends with maturity and intelligence, and his technical level means he can support the team higher up the pitch.
"What excites me most is that I believe the best is still to come from Lewis. He has a lot of room to develop, and I am looking forward to working with him as he grows with us."
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