Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are leading the race to sign Rory MacLeod from Dundee United in the January transfer window along with Premier League rivals Brighton and Hove Albion, according to The Sun.
Newcastle United linked with Dundee United striker Rory MacLeod
The report in the British tabloid has claimed that Newcastle and Brighton are keen on snapping up the 16-year-old striker this month.
The Scotland Under-17 international striker is part of the United first-team squad now.
MacLeod made two substitute appearances in the Scottish Premiership last season, and has made three substitute appearances in the league so far this campaign.
The Sun have reported that Terrors could sell MacLeod for about £400,000 plus add-ons.
Exciting talent
In our view, Newcastle United would be signing a very talented and promising young striker in Rory MacLeod if they do manage to get a deal done in the January transfer window.
The striker is only 16, but he is already playing in the Scottish Premiership.
That shows just how much potential MacLeod has.
Now, of course, we do not expect the Scottish teenager to go straight into the Newcastle first-team squad.
However, if MacLeod continues to progress and develop in the Newcastle youth set-up, then he could develop into a fine player for the Premier League club.
In December 2021, then Dundee United Academy Director Andy Goldie said about MacLeod on the club’s official website after he put pen to paper on a three-year deal: “We are delighted to welcome Rory as our latest Academy graduate to commit his future to the Club.
“He is a player who instantly excited me when I joined in February 2019 and it has been a privilege to watch him embrace the challenges and opportunities our young players are provided with at Dundee United, rather than entertaining opportunities elsewhere.
“Already, he is regularly training with the First Team, as well as being capped at Under 16 level however, if he is to fulfil his full potential long term, he must continue to show the same work ethic, accountability and character that has earned him these rewards thus far. If he can, I am sure there will be more significant milestones ahead of him.”
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