The performance-related criteria to sign the Chelsea defender is close to being triggered by Newcastle United.
Eddie Howe believes Lewis Hall will be a Newcastle United player for “many years” as he edges closer to sealing a permanent move from Chelsea.
Newcastle have an obligation to buy Hall for £28million plus £7m in add-ons if certain performance-related criteria is met. However, the 19-year-old’s lack of game time has created an air of confusion over his future.
While Howe won’t disclosed publicly what the exact criteria is, the United boss says the left-back is close to triggering a move.
“In terms of my thinking, I’m preparing for Lewis to be at Newcastle for many years,” said Howe. “He was always brought in with a long term view, not a short term signing. He is a long term signing.
“We have always believed in him and his quality and we have been working really hard with him on his game. He’s a really talented lad. He’s got a couple of things to continue working on as all the players have. I believe in him. My vision for him is he will be at Newcastle for many years.”
Asked if the criteria to turn the deal into a permanent one has been reached yet, Howe replied: “I don’t think has quite happened yet but hopefully it will do very soon.”
Hall has made just 11 appearances for United having last started a game in November – the 2-0 defeat away to AFC Bournemouth.
In the five matches the Hall has started, he has only once played longer than 45 minutes and that was when he scored in the 3-0 win at Manchester United in the Carabao Cup. The England under-20s international has also been an unused substitute in past eight matches.
Howe insists the signing Hall is a long-term investment and has called for patience in regards to his development.
“Yes, I think so, and that’s why I said I’m preparing long-term for him to be here,” said Howe. “I’m delighted with that because he has many qualities we are looking for. Sometimes, and I know it’s a rare commodity these days, we just need some patience. We just need to wait to develop players.
“There’s no magic wand but time and good work on the training pitch. Players develop at different speeds, but we’re delighted with the progress he’s made. “When you look at someone of that age moving away from home — regardless of the fact they’re a footballer — you can’t underestimate the challenges that come with that. He’s handled himself really well and it’s been a season of growth for him although the external view would not necessarily have seen that.
“We have seen that internally so it’s been a really powerful, positive year for him. A lot of work has been put into him and I do believe in him long-term.”
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