EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle trio Dwight Gayle, Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark are training with Under 23s, with Eddie Howe's squad in need of trimming as they eye up moves for Moussa Diaby and Armando Broja

Newcastle trio Dwight Gayle, Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark are training with the club’s Under-23s as they near an exit from St James’ Park, Sportsmail can reveal.

Head coach Eddie Howe has a squad of more than 30 senior professionals and there is a realisation he cannot carry such bloated numbers through pre-season.

This has seen defender Clark and midfielder Hendrick - both Republic of Ireland internationals - as well as striker Gayle rerouted to the club’s academy base.

Dwight Gayle (right) is among the Newcastle players training with the club's Under 23 squad

Ciaran Clark (right) is also away from the first team as he nears a summer exit from St James'

However, it is expected that all three will move on in the near future as Newcastle look to trim their group and make room for more incomings, with Nick Pope, Matt Targett and Sven Botman already through the door this summer.