Newcastle set to sign versatile defender as recruitment drive continues at youth level

Newcastle’s recent youth graduates and academy signings have been among some of the most exciting in the Premier League.

Whether it be exciting players from up and down the Premier League, to even taking talent from Inter Milan, the future is certainly looking bright.

And a new report claims we are looking north of the border for our next youth signing…

Rising Rangers star set for Tyneside

According to Scottish outlet The Daily Record, Newcastle are closing in on a deal to sign youngster Oliver Goodbrand from Rangers.

The teenager has largely operated at left-back at youth level, but has shown impressive versatility by also playing as a winger.

Losing the 16-year-old is said to be a big blow to the Scottish giants, following on from Rory Wilson’s departure to Aston Villa three years ago.

Having broke into the Rangers B team at just 15-years-old, it’s understood that the club have offered Goodbrand professional terms to stay in Glasgow.

A move for Goodbrand would follow recent moves for Irish winger Kyle Fitzgerald and Turkish midfielder Baran Yildiz earlier this year, with both slotting straight into our Under-18 side in recent months.

What’s next for Goodbrand at Newcastle?

Being under 17, there’s a fixed set of transfer procedures the club must offer to the youngster to integrate him into our academy.

Whilst he would have been able to sign a professional deal with Rangers, he can only join us on a scholarship deal until he turns 17.

Rangers will at least receive some financial compensation if we do proceed with the move.

From there, Goodbrand could very well slot into our blossoming defensive system, with the likes of Leo Shahar and Cathall Heffernan excelling across the system.

It’s an exciting time for young British and Irish talent at Newcastle, and with the club’s strong focus on strengthening the club outside of the men’s senior side, things could even get better from here.