Newcastle demote trio to under-23s as Howe eyes Chelsea and Everton starlets

According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies currently boast a first team squad of 30 players, a tally that is likely unmanageable for Eddie Howe ahead of the club's pre-season campaign.

As a result, Dwight Gayle, Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark have been demoted to the under-23s, making their status at the club crystal clear.

Gayle's days at St James' Park are numbered with the 30-year-old making just nine first team appearances last term.

As a result, Watford and Birmingham City are both said to be keen on a loan move for the player, while Middlesbrough are also interested.

With Matt Targett and Sven Botman already signed this summer, it seems that Ciaran Clark's future at the club is also in question with Sheffield United considering a move.

Elsewhere Jeff Hendrick looks set to move on following his loan spell with QPR last term, with Reading among those interested.

Newcastle are also likely to offload Elliot Anderson, Joe White and Kelland Watts, three of the club's most talented youngsters, with loan deals on the cards.

Once Newcastle have cleared the decks they'll be able to get to work on adding more to quality to Eddie Howe's side.

Among those linked with the club are Chelsea forward Armando Broja and Everton starlet Anthony Gordon.

The Magpies are one of a number of clubs interested in Broja following his encouraging loan spell with Southampton last term.

As for Gordon, Newcastle are said to have held talks over a £35million move for the 21-year-old, however it's reported that the Toffees are not looking to cash in on their prized asset.