Newcastle United defender Leo Shahar has completed a season-long loan move to Portuguese side FC Arouca. The 19-year-old's switch was sanctioned this week after head coach Matthias Jaissle received a late offer that was too good to turn down.
Newcastle United currently sit sixth in the Premier League with four points from their opening two matches, having scored four goals and conceded two. They are just two points behind early leaders Manchester City. Their next challenge is an away fixture against Leeds on September 14th, a match you can preview on our fixtures page.
The decision to allow Shahar to leave on loan was influenced by several factors. The Portuguese transfer window remains open, providing a unique opportunity for the teenager to gain valuable first-team experience at a high level. FC Arouca have made a strong start to their Primeira Liga campaign and currently occupy third place in the table. With Tino Livramento returning from injury and the recent arrival of Amar Dedic from Benfica, defensive options at St. James' Park have increased, making a temporary departure more feasible for Shahar's development.
Leo Shahar joined Newcastle's ranks after previously playing for the Wolves youth team. He impressed during pre-season preparations under the guidance of Eddie Howe and Matthias Jaissle. His hard work was rewarded in February when he made his first-team debut, coming on as a second-half substitute in a UEFA Champions League victory over Qarabağ FK at St. James' Park. The club had held him back from a loan move last season, a decision Shahar admitted left him with mixed feelings about his route to gaining experience.
Speaking to reporters earlier in the window, Shahar reflected on his path. "I did not go out on loan in this window but I am happy now," he said. "I am in and around the first-team. I got this opportunity to make my debut." The young defender emphasized that his approach remains the same whether he is with the Under-21s or the senior squad, focusing on continual improvement. The club confirmed the move with a statement saying, "Leo Shahar has completed a season-long loan switch to Portuguese top-flight side FC Arouca."
The loan allows Shahar to compete for regular minutes in a competitive European league, which aligns with the club's strategy for nurturing young talent. Fans can track the progress of all Newcastle United players, including those out on loan, via the official squad page. The Magpies' solid defensive record of two goals conceded from two games provides a stable platform as they prepare for their trip to face Leeds, who are currently eighth in the table. Shahar's loan to FC Arouca runs until the end of the 2026-27 season.
