Newcastle beat Man Utd to the signing of the ‘next John Stones’

Newcastle have fended off interest from Manchester United to sign Barnsley teenager Josh Kenchington, according to a report.

After a summer of being beaten to signings by Premier League rivals, the Magpies appear to have got one over on their foes in the race for one of England’s highest-rated prospects.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle have agreed a €400,000 deal for Barnsley defender Josh Kenchington, with ‘significant’ bonus payments taking the value of the transfer potentially even higher. It was the St. James’ Park club’s second bid.

Only 15 years of age, the centre-back has been playing U18s football since age 14, helped by his precocious physical development. Due to his talent and the fact that he has been playing for Barnsley, he has been compared to England and Man City star John Stones.

Described as being two-footed, the four-time England U15 international will officially join Newcastle once all the necessary due diligence has been carried out by the Premier League.

Newcastle beat Man Utd to wonderkid signing

According to the report, Newcastle have successfully fended off interest from the likes of Man Utd, Tottenham and Brighton to sign the 15-year-old prodigy.

This may be a bit of consolation after missing out on Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to the Red Devils in a summer window marked by players choosing other clubs over Newcastle.

Given his age, Kenchington is unlikely to be seen in and around the first team for some time, though, so it may yet take a while for the Magpies to reap the rewards of their investment.

He will initially join the club’s academy and continue his education in Newcastle. It remains to be seen when the club will actually announce his arrival. Premier League examinations of academy transfers can take several weeks and even months.

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