Leyton Orient are closing in on the signing of Newcastle United midfielder Joe White on a season-long loan, with the deal expected to be finalised in the next 24 hours.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, under contract at St James’ Park until 2027, becomes the latest addition in a busy summer window for Richie Wellens’ side as they prepare for another League One promotion push.
White enjoyed a productive loan spell with MK Dons last season in League Two, where he registered six goals and two assists in 35 appearances across all competitions. That included 23 league starts, where he developed a reputation for his progressive ball-carrying and late runs into the box.
This move marks the fifth loan of White’s career, having previously featured at Hartlepool United, Exeter City, and Crewe Alexandra, before impressing with the Dons in 2024/25. His only taste of League One action came during a brief stint with Exeter in 2023, but Orient will now offer him a full-season opportunity to prove himself at this level.
White has also made four Premier League appearances for Newcastle as a substitute and has represented England at U18 level, underlining his pedigree.
With Leyton Orient undergoing a midfield overhaul—following the departures of Ethan Galbraith, Jordan Brown, and Dominic Ball—the creative spark of White is expected to complement the summer arrivals of Demetri Mitchell, Idris El Mizouni, Tyreeq Bakinson, Michael Craig, and the returning Lewis Warrington.
Richie Wellens’ side were narrowly denied promotion last season after a 1-0 defeat to Charlton Athletic in the play-off final. They now look well-stocked in midfield and determined to go one better in 2025/26.
Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 League Two (MK Dons):
• 35 appearances, 6 goals, 2 assists
• 2,245 minutes played
• 82% pass accuracy
• 1.6 key passes per 90
• 1.8 successful dribbles per 90
• 5 big chances created
• 24 shots on target
🟥 ZONE CONFIRMED
@NewcastleUnited | @LeytonOrientFC
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