Newcastle United are said to be completing the signing of Kilmarnock centre-back Charlie McArthur, Mike McGrath of The Telegraph reported on Wednesday morning.
McGrath said that the; ‘Scotland youth international seen as huge prospect but sources at his club say it is difficult to stand in way when youngster is targeted by a Premier League club.’
As Newcastle supporters watch keenly the rebuilding of the historic club, much is expected to happen at St James Park in the transfer window, especially under the new wealthy club owners.
At the tender age of 16, McArthur made his debut in the Kilmarnock first team this past campaign. The youngster is considered among the top rising stars in Europe, with the Magpies looking likely to tap into his great potential.
Manager Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth were the first two key appointments the new ownership at Newcastle made, and the selection is paying off well.
Howe delivered the third best form of any Premier League club in the second half of last season, scoring 38 points in 19 games.
On the other hand, Dan Ashworth has commenced working after Newcastle came to an agreement for compensation to end his gardening leave.
Ashworth stepped down from his role at Brighton in February 2022, but his contract dictated he could take a new job until nine months later.
The Charlie McArthur pursuit is believed to have been engineered by Dan Ashworth, telling it why Brighton were not willing to give the Magpies an easy ride.
Brighton are also reported to have developed an interest in the prodigy and made an attempt to sign him in March 2022.
Daily Record report – 29 March 2022:
‘Brighton are set to table a £275,000 bid to try and beat Wolves and West Ham United to the signing of Kilmarnock youngster Charlie McArthur.
“The 16-year-old has already made a handful of top-team appearances for Killie and is wanted by all three English Premier League clubs.
“Brighton, who are also keen on Rangers youngster Rory Wilson, have been tracking the young central defender for some time and also watched him play for Scotland’s under-17s last week.”
