Newcastle United are reportedly looking to sign Hearts star Callum Paterson.
Heart of Midlothian’s Calum Paterson
According to The Scottish Sun, Newcastle United have joined the race to sign Hearts right back Callum Paterson – but only want him for their Under-23 squad right now.
The Magpies have landed one right back already this summer having snapped up former Atletico Madrid ace Jesus Gamez, whilst Dutch international Daryl Janmaat remains at the club despite alleged Premier League interest.
Heart of Midlothian’s Callum Paterson celebrates scoring
However, Rafael Benitez has already shown that he’s willing to plan for the future as well, and with centre back Stuart Findlay and striker Yasin Ben El-Mhanni for their Under-23 side, Newcastle now want a right back for their developmental squad.
The Scottish Sun report that the Magpies have identified Heart of Midlothian star Callum Paterson as a player they want to add to their Under-23 side, despite him being a Scotland international.
Hearts’ Callum Paterson in action against Kenny Miller of Rangers
London-born Paterson joined Edinburgh-based Tynecastle Boys Club at a young age, and moved on to Hearts in 2010, quickly being fast-tracked to the first-team just two years later.
Primarily a right back but even capable of playing up front, the athletically-gifted Paterson has notched an impressive 31 goals in 145 games for Hearts, and made his Scotland debut against Italy back in May.
Heart of Midlothian’s Callum Paterson (R) in action with Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong
Now, The Scottish Sun report that after Wigan Athletic had an offer worth up to £600,000 rejected, Hearts want £1.2m for Paterson – and Newcastle have joined the race for his signature.
However, Newcastle don’t intend to offer Paterson first-team football immediately, and instead he’d join ex-Celtic defender Findlay in the Under-23 side, meaning Paterson may have to decide between first-team football or a slow progression with a huge club like Newcastle.
Would you like to see Newcastle add Paterson to their Under-23 side?
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