By admin 
The transfer window is now closed in England, but Newcastle United may suddenly have a huge decision to make involving Jamaal Lascelles.
Clubs in England and elsewhere in Europe can no longer sign the Newcastle captain, but he could have the chance to go to the Middle East.
That is because it has been reported that Al Shabab, who compete in the Saudi Pro League, are interested in signing Lascelles this week. The transfer window in Saudi Arabia is due to close on Thursday, and they are weighing up whether or not to make a bid for the 29-year-old.
Lascelles was linked with a move away from Newcastle during the summer, while it has been stated that he will not get a contract extension at St James’ Park. That means that he will leave the club for nothing next year – unless he is sold now.
Eddie Howe did not want to lose Lascelles on deadline day, and the Newcastle boss got his wish. But now the Magpies’ resolve could be tested again, and it is very clear what they must do regarding the Toon skipper.
Newcastle must not sell Jamaal Lascelles this week
While it has been a long time since Lascelles was a regular starter on Tyneside, it would be an absolute disaster if the club allowed him to leave this week.
He may be the fourth choice centre-back nowadays, but his presence is certainly necessary given injury concerns involving Sven Botman and Fabian Schar.
Newcastle do not have a lot of options at the heart of defence right now, having opted against signing a centre-back during the summer transfer window.
That may have been a mistake, and it will be an even bigger error if the club decide to let Lascelles leave this week.
While he might be keen on the opportunity to go elsewhere and play regular football, Newcastle would be leaving themselves massively light at the back with no chance of bringing in a replacement.
If he stays, Lascelles will likely not play a lot of minutes in black and white this season. But with more games and limited cover, his absence would soon be felt if we decided to let him leave.
In no uncertain terms should Newcastle sell Lascelles to Al Shabab this week.