Chelsea can amend one of their greatest mistakes in the summer with Lewis Hall

Jacque Talbot

• 15 Dec 2023 08:25 CST
• 3 min read

Eddie Howe is uncertain about the future loanee Lewis Hall at Newcastle for the next season - leaving the door open for Chelsea to amend one of their greatest mistakes.

The 19-year-old, on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy for £28 million, faces uncertainty regarding his continued stay at St James' Park.

It’s thought that the deal involves performance-related criteria, though it’s not clear precisely what it is. As well as this,, his limited appearances have raised questions to Eddie Howe, who brought him to Newcastle over the summer window. When asked about Hall’s situation, the Magpies boss responded, "You’re probably asking the wrong man; I’m not 100 per cent sure." A press officer intervened when directly asked about Hall's future during a press conference on Friday. Howe did say: "For me, he’s here now, he’s a Newcastle player. But I think there’s certain criteria he has to meet."

What does this mean for Hall’s future?

Concerning Hall's future, the prevailing belief is that Newcastle will ultimately formalise his acquisition, as was initially assumed. However, Howe's recent statements have introduced a hint of uncertainty. If Hall were to return to Chelsea, where he showcased standout performances last season, it could provide the Blues with an opportunity to reconsider their decision to part ways with the young talent.

Chelsea's recent ownership has faced criticism, grappling with goal-scoring struggles and defensive fatigue on the pitch, while the recruitment gambles have not paid off yet.

Todd Boehly's strategy revolves around acquiring the best-emerging talents, leading to the sale of several academy-developed players. Mason Mount's move to Manchester United stands out as a particularly astute business move since Boehly's takeover. However, the unpopular decision to sell Hall to a Premier League club vying for a similar position as Chelsea raised eyebrows at the time.

There are murmurs that Hall has the potential to become an England star in the coming years, making him a coveted player for any club. This context adds an element of peculiarity to Howe's recent comments.

Nevertheless, if, during the summer transfer window, the Newcastle coach deems Hall's fee unworthy, it becomes imperative for Chelsea to embrace Hall and ensure he receives ample playing time at Stamford Bridge to realize his full potential.