Newcastle United are right to pursue a new striker in this summer’s transfer window, but already have one on their books who could have a huge future on Tyneside.
That man is Michael Ndiweni, the 18-year-old Geordie who signed his first professional contract at St James’ Park earlier this week.
It’s been an outstanding year for the teenager, who has gone from starring in our U18 setup to being invited to train with the senior side by Eddie Howe earlier this year.
The former St Cuthberts High School pupil – who joined from Newcastle City Juniors in 2016 – ended the 2020/21 campaign with five goals in our final four games and hasn’t looked back since then.
Last season, he scored 14 goals in 19 games for our U18s, found the net three times in the FA Youth Cup and was promoted to our U23s as a result of his impressive form.
He’s eligible to play for either England or Zimbabwe and earned a spot in The Guardian’s ‘Next Generation 2020’, which highlighted 20 of the best young talents at Premier League Clubs. Two years later, it’s easy to see why.
Here’s what he told NUFC.co.uk after signing his first pro deal with the club a few days ago:
“It’s a proud moment for myself, my family and friends because it’s something I’ve been working for ever since I arrived at the club.
“That was the number one goal – to live my dream in becoming a professional footballer for my boyhood club. My friends and family support Newcastle so it’s a good feeling saying you are a professional footballer at the club all your friends and people in the area support.
“Up until my injury, last season was one of the best I’ve had. I scored regularly for the under-18s, trained with the first-team and was involved with the under-23s so I think I made good progress throughout the year.
“Learning the tricks of the trade from players such as (Callum) Wilson, Woodsy (Chris Wood) and Dwight (Gayle), who are all top level strikers, as well as the gaffer too, helped me improve so much.
“When I’ve had that taste, I’ve been working hard and, with my injury, making sure I come back better to have those tastes more often next season.”
