Following his recent call-up to the England U-18 squad, the Chronicle have confirmed that Newcastle will offer highly-rated talent Adam Wilson a professional deal and two-year contract at the club.
Rafa has made known his plans to revamp the development squad in the summer, and tying the skilful Wilson down on a professional contract looks like his first move.
The 17-year-old – who is capable of playing as a left-back or left-winger – has played 15 times for NUFC U-18’s this season and has even been given a chance at U-23 level over the past few months.
His rapid rise through the ranks has been impressive, highlighted by the fact he’s just earned a call-up to the latest England U-18 set up for the current international break.
He’s clearly caught the eye of NUFC fans watching him in second string action too, with supporters having the following to say on social media after watching the skilful school-boy in action:
I don't want to cause mass hysteria, but THIS by #nufc 17 year-old prospect @Adzwilson111, is staggering… pic.twitter.com/FH7oyic7Ed
— The Spectator's View (@thespectoview) August 2, 2017
Wow Adam Wilson for #nufc u21's is a awesome talent. ? Ridiculous skills he's showcasing once again.
— TrezasToon (@keithtrezayoung) July 25, 2017
Watch out for #NUFC's Adam Wilson tonight – the 16 year old winger impressed me in the 4-3 win at #SAFC in the last round. Looks a prospect! pic.twitter.com/mhv721ovSd
— Black&WhiteBarmy (@BlackWhiteBarmy) February 27, 2017
Newcastle confirmed a few weeks ago that the likes of Curtis Good and Tom Heardman would be released from the U-23 set up, with Benitez set to make improving the under-belly of the first-team one of his one big missions this summer.
Whilst we can expect several new U-23 faces to arrive, keeping the likes of Wilson at the club will be on his agenda, and this potential new deal for the England U-18 international highlights Rafa’s refreshing focus on fresh young talent at the club.
Good luck to the lad. Hopefully one we see featuring in the first-team later down the line.
