Isaac Hayden ‘available for transfer back to Portsmouth’ after Newcastle update
Portsmouth are still in the hunt for central-midfielders after two loan signings returned to their parent clubs.
Freddie Potts and Isaac Hayden were mainstays in the Pompey midfield last season, but it was thought there would be little chance of either returning to Fratton Park after their loan spells ended.
However, the door for Hayden to return may now have opened.
Hayden transfer listed by Newcastle
Hayden has been at Newcastle since 2016, and has made 171 appearances for the Magpies.
However, the Jamaican international hasn’t been picked since 2021. He was sent out on loan to QPR in 2023-24 and to Portsmouth last season.
Now, The Athletic reports that Newcastle have transfer listed the midfielder, with the hopes of pushing through a sale this summer.
So, he could be an option to play a starring role in Portsmouth’s midfield next season.
Hayden is likely to want a move, particularly as he has aspirations to represent Jamaica at the 2026 World Cup. He’ll need to be a regular starter to guarantee that.
However, it has been reported that his wage demands have prevented him from finding a new club in the past.
Several hurdles could prevent Hayden returning to Portsmouth
Hayden has spoken highly of his time at Portsmouth, but there are several hurdles that may prevent him returning to Fratton Park.
First off, he has a year left on his Newcastle contract, so a transfer fee would be involved to acquire him this summer.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 17 | 953 | 0 | 0 |
Pompey have money available to spend on midfielders, as proven by their pursuit of players like £2.5million-rated Pelle Mattsson, but it’s not clear whether they would want to invest significant funds into a 30-year-old.
With that said, Hayden was popular among Portsmouth fans, and his capture could be seen as a good investment.
John Mousinho will certainly be made aware of Hayden’s situation at Newcastle, and a bid could be made if the numbers suit Portsmouth.
If Pompey don’t follow through, it would likely a case of the midfielder costing too much, rather than a reflection of his ability as a player.
A move for Potts had been ruled out long ago, as he is expected to fight for a first-team place at West Ham this season.
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