Premier League giants Newcastle United should complete the signing of former AC Milan and Serie A youngster Cathal Heffernan later today, according to reports.
After being offered a contract by the Magpies earlier in the month – per the uber-reliable Gianluca di Marzio – Cathal Heffernan’s father did little to dampen the speculation surrounding an imminent move to St James’ Park on Tuesday.
Heffernan Sr posted a photo of his 18-year-old son seemingly boarding a flight to Newcastle, complete with the caption big day ahead’.
A big day indeed. The Republic of Ireland U19 international is expected to put pen to paper with Eddie Howe’s side in the coming hours (Irish Examiner).
Newcastle United set for Cathal Heffernan deal
Once of Cork City, the talented centre-half spent the 2022/23 season at Italian giants AC Milan.
Interestingly, Heffernan suggested to Sky News that he may have joined a club based in England 12 months earlier, moving to Milan after Brexit rules came into force. With a move to Newcastle now close, it seems he will get his wish eventually.
“If Brexit hadn’t had happened I probably could be in England right now,” Heffernan said.
“It’s a massive disadvantage for England. They are going to have to figure out a way, in the future, to counteract it.
“The European clubs are going to start taking over.”
Newcastle are also in for Kevin Zefi; another talented young Irishman based in Milan. He is currently plying his trade in the blue-and-black of Inter.
Heffernan, meanwhile, has captained Ireland at youth level. He is expected to feature for Newcastle’s U23 side initially before potentially forcing his way into Eddie Howe’s first-team plans.
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