Manchester United were linked with a transfer swoop for Lewis Hall over the summer but the defender has now signed a new contract with the Magpies
Manchester United transfer target Lewis Hall says his family connection with Newcastle United was a major reason behind signing a new deal with the Magpies. Michael Carrick’s side are understood to be huge admirers of the England international and were linked with a move for Hall during the summer.
United were expected to bolster their squad in the left-back position of their squad, but in the end, chose not to bring in any new additions. There was speculation that the Reds’ hierarchy could revisit a move for Hall next summer, while Alejandro Balde and David Raum were also touted as possible transfer alternatives.
However, United have been dealt a fresh setback after Hall signed a new long-term deal with Newcastle today.
Speaking after signing a new deal with the Magpies, Hall 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.”
Newcastle made it clear that they would not be selling Hall this summer, having already cashed in on Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon.
Former Reds goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel found himself in hot water on social media after joking that United were keen on signing Hall during a recent post-match interview with Matthies Jaissle after the Magpies’ draw with Liverpool.
The new Toon head coach said there was ‘no chance’ of Man United signing Hall during the summer transfer window, and that stance wasn’t tested by Carrick and co.
FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FB PAGE! Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page
Speaking about Hall’s new deal, 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.”
Man United will now have to look for other alternatives if they wish to sign a left-back in the January transfer window, or be forced into paying a premium fee for Hall.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login