Newcastle United will look to resolve the futures of a clutch of players due to return to pre-season training in the next fortnight.
The Magpies have three senior loanees set for a return to Benton in early July with Karl Darlow, Isaac Hayden and Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick contracted to come back for pre-season. Howe has already hinted that midfield duo Hayden and Hendrick are likely to leave as United looked to trim the squad and the wage bill.
Hayden has three years left on his current Toon contract while Hendrick is entering the last 12 months of his existing deal. Darlow has two years left on his contract.
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Hendrick spent last season on loan at Reading and a permanent deal to the Berkshire club was looking good until a points deduction pushed them towards relegation to League One. Hayden spent last season on loan at Norwich City and had effectively said goodbye to fans on Tyneside.
But a campaign dented by knee problems meant his move to Norwich never became permanent. Howe said at the end of last season: "They've done very well and been great servants to the football club and we certainly respect them. But sometimes you need a clear break and focus on the players who will play a part in the season."
Darlow spent the second half of the season on loan at Hull City but his status is now uncertain at Newcastle.
Darlow is wanted by the club he almost signed for two years ago with Middlesbrough vying for his services. But he could quite easily challenge Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka in the Toon ranks.
A contract offer to Loris Karius and the extension of squad keeper Mark Gillespie makes his stay unlikely at this stage. However, his representatives are mulling over ideas ahead of the new season.
United are looking to send Garang Kuol straight out on loan after he spent last season with Hearts. The highlight of his stay was a goal at Ibrox in a 2-2 draw in the Scottish Premiership.
Loan manager Shola Ameobi is weighing up options for Kuol next season and there will be no shortage of interest in the exciting teenager.
