Newcastle United have announced the signing of Kilmarnock talent Charlie McAthur, confirming he will join the club ‘subject to international clearance.’
The 17-year-old centre-back captains Scotland at U17 level and is believed to be one of the most highly-rated young defenders North of the border, with the club revealing that we beat of ‘strong interest’ from a ‘number of Premier League clubs’ to his signature.
McAthur made his full debut for Kilmarnock at the age of 16 and managed four first-team appearances last season as they sealed promotion back to the SPL.
This comes just two days after we announced the signing of Spurs left-back Jordan Hackett, with Galway United star Alex Murphy another teenage talent who’s joined our U21 setup this summer.
Here’s the official announcement online, followed by a club statement on nufc.co.uk:
Newcastle United are pleased to confirm the signing of young defender Charlie McArthur from Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock subject to international clearance.
The 17-year-old centre-back, who captained Scotland at this summer’s Under-17 European Championship in Israel, made his senior debut for Killie as a 16-year-old in October 2021 during a Scottish Challenge Cup last-16 win against Queen’s Park.
The defender made a further three appearances for the 2021/22 Scottish Championship winners, including his league bow in April during a 1-1 draw against Raith Rovers.
The promising youngster, who attracted strong interest from a number of Premier League clubs, will link up with United’s under-18 side ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
