Newcastle United are once again trying to strengthen their junior levels this summer, as well as make significant first-team acquisitions.
Although Dan Ashworth is leaving as Sporting Director, the club’s transfer strategy remains unchanged, and they are committed to attracting the best young players from around the world.
According to the Daily Record, Newcastle is one of just a few Premier League clubs interested in signing Kilmarnock striker Zander Craik this summer.
18-year-old striker wanted by Newcastle in bargain move
There’s not much information about Craik because he has yet to make his first-team debut for the Scottish club, but he’s been impressing in their younger ranks recently.
Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Leeds, and Newcastle are all interested in signing the youngster, who has certainly demonstrated a lot of potential and might be the next addition to the Geordies’ academy.
It’s not exactly a blockbuster deal that will have a significant impact on the outcome of next season, but it is an indication that Newcastle are looking ahead, which they rarely did during Mike Ashley’s ownership.
Craik’s contract is set to expire in the summer, so a number of teams are keeping an eye on his status, hoping to pounce on a good deal, but Kilmarnock are working hard to convince him to sign a new contract.
Craik could be Newcastle’s next top youngster
Newcastle have signed some interesting young talent in the last two years, including Yankuba Minteh, Garang Kuol, and Alfie Harrison.
The Magpies have also made some significant signings deeper down the academy, with some promising teens joining in the last year who are expected to blossom into first-team stars over the next five years.
This is a breath of fresh air after watching the academy be completely ignored over the last 15 years or so, with a number of excellent talent leaving for bigger teams.
Newcastle fans recently had to see Bobby Clark, Lee Clark’s son, win the Carabao Cup with Liverpool just a few years after leaving Newcastle’s academy for next to nothing, and they will be hoping that never happens again.
