According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle have signed Jordan Hackett after he was released by Antonio Conte at Tottenham.
What’s the story?
Well, the 18-year-old was one of 12 youngsters let go by the Italian this summer, although Newcastle clearly believe the teenager has talent.
The Northern Echo explain how Hackett appeared in an Under-23 game for the Magpies against Rangers at Newcastle’s Little Benton training ground, where he clearly impressed those on Tyneside.
Despite interest from a number of other clubs, the England Under-18 international has now decided to join Newcastle, following two years with Tottenham.
Hackett will go straight into the development setup, where he is likely to feature regularly for the Under-21 side while also appearing in the Papa John’s Trophy.
In our view, if he plays his cards right, the youngster could even make a first-team debut by the end of the season, although he has an outstanding option ahead of him in Matt Targett.
Last term – in what was his final campaign in north London – Hackett made 11 appearances in the Under-18 Premier League, as well as two outings in the FA Youth Cup.
Tottenham trash could be Newcastle treasure
In our view, Conte could end up with egg on his face if Hackett becomes a star at Newcastle.
In fairness to the Italian, he probably didn’t see a pathway for Hackett in N17, as Tottenham are blessed with a number of left-back options.
Conte already had Sergio Reguilon and Ryan Sessegnon, while Ivan Perisic has also been signed following an impressive season for Inter Milan at left wing-back.
Perhaps that is why Hackett has been allowed to leave, as an England Under-18 international must have some ability, to say the least.
Sometimes, a young prospect just needs a change of scenery to kickstart their career, so hopefully the London-born defender can find himself on Tyneside.
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