SANTIAGO MUNOZ is set to leave Newcastle United in January, when his unsuccessful 18-month loan deal with the Magpies is due to come to an end.

Munoz, who was the final signing of Mike Ashley’s Tyneside tenure, joined Newcastle on loan from Mexican side Santos Laguna in August 2021.

His 18-month loan agreement contains a clause that would enable the Magpies to complete a permanent deal for the 20-year-old at the turn of the year, but given his lack of impact during his time on Tyneside, Newcastle officials will not be triggering option.

Munoz has struggled with a succession of injuries in the last year-and-a-half, and has made just 13 appearances for Newcastle’s development team.

He has only started two matches for the Magpies’ Under-21s this season, and was not involved in Monday’s derby draw with Sunderland, with lead player development coach, Elliot Dickman, revealing he is once again sidelined because of an injury issue.

Dickman has not yet been informed about Newcastle’s plans for the forward beyond the end of the year, but it would be a major surprise if he was to be offered a full-time contract on Tyneside.

“Santi’s injured,” said Dickman. “He’s in the hands of the medical team. In terms of what the next stages are for Santi, I’ll be honest with you, I really don’t know.

“I’m sure once the decision has been made, somebody will let people know. At this moment in time, the main focus is getting Santi fit and getting him back on the grass and involved in games. We’ll see what happens.”

Munoz has not made a competitive senior appearance for Newcastle, although he did come on as a substitute during the pre-season friendly with Athletic Bilbao at St James’ Park.

Monday’s second-string derby draw proved a remarkable encounter with Sunderland equalising in stoppage time as their goalkeeper, Alex Bass, prodded home the rebound after his initial effort from a corner had been saved.

Bass’ final touch appeared to have come via his hand, but the goal was allowed to stand, meaning ten-man Newcastle were pegged back following the dismissal of Jay Turner-Cooke for two yellow cards in quick succession.

“I think it (was) a handball,” said Dickman.