Isaac Hayden has an uncertain future at Newcastle, with the defensive-midfielder having handed in a transfer request back in July and still seeking an exit from St James’ Park. The Magpies reportedly rejected a bid from West Bromwich Albion in January and may have interest from Aston Villa to contend with, but Hayden will only be granted a move when Newcastle identify a replacement.

The 23-year-old has made 79 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle since joining the North-East club from Arsenal in 2016, but he’s found himself on the periphery this season. Hayden racked up only 128 minutes of Premier League football before December but has enjoyed a recent run in the side due to United’s injury crisis.

Ki Sung-yueng was away with South Korea at the Asian Cup but has been sent home due to injury, Jonjo Shelvey is still suffering from a thigh problem and Mohamed Diame has been sidelined with a groin injury. It means Hayden is more valuable than ever for Newcastle, so he’ll only be granted a move when the midfield has been replenished.

Aston Villa and West Brom are two clubs who may keep tabs on his progress, and they’ll be able to get a good look now that Hayden has returned to the starting eleven. The former England u21 international has featured in each of United’s last five games and hasn’t fared too badly.

Stats from Transfermarkt.