Isaac Hayden’s likely summer exit should prompt Newcastle to rekindle interest in soon-to-be free agent Andreas Samaris

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Newcastle United could be in the market for more than one new central midfielder in the summer transfer window.

Isaac Hayden has admitted that he is likely to leave in the summer to move closer to his one-year-old daughter, who lives down south.

In the programme notes from last weekend’s match, as reported by The Chronicle, Hayden said: “I think I’ve made it very clear to the club’s hierarchy and the fans.

“I’ve got my side of the story out – I’ve made it pretty clear how things go. I don’t think there’ll be many questions. I don’t think summer’s going to be an issue.”

This will be a blow for Newcastle as Hayden has starred in the midfield recently. And with Jonjo Shelvey possibly heading to West Ham (Northern Echo) and Mo Diame out of contract, Newcastle could be light in central midfield.

It could now be time to reignite their interest in Andreas Samaris. The Benfica midfielder will become a free agent in the summer and could be a bargain solution in this position.

In January, Newcastle were close to landing the 35-cap Greece international on loan, according to The Telegraph.

The 29-year-old operates in holding midfield for Benfica and has played 17 matches this season. But with his contract expiring, a move to Newcastle could be the ideal next step in his career.

And the Magpies will need at least one new central midfielder in the summer so Samaris on a free transfer could be shrewd business.