Newcastle United has made another strategic move in the transfer market, officially announcing the signing of a highly-rated young Irish winger to bolster their academy ranks.
The player joins from a prominent Irish club and becomes the second talent from the same academy to make the switch to Tyneside. After a successful trial period and overcoming registration hurdles, the youngster has finally put pen to paper, adding to Newcastle’s growing reputation as a hub for emerging talent.
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Newcastle Transfer News: Young Kyle Fitzgerald joins Newcastle
Kyle Fitzgerald, the 18-year-old Ireland Under-17 international from Galway United, who turned 18 in January, has officially joined Newcastle’s Under-21s after a deal was agreed upon last summer. However, due to changes in the UK’s non-EU registration rules, the formalities could only be completed once he reached the required age.
Academy director Steve Harper couldn’t hide his excitement about the signing, revealing that Newcastle had to beat off competition from several “big clubs” to secure Fitzgerald’s services: “We are delighted Kyle has chosen to join the club amidst lots of interest from other big clubs.
“He has impressed during a trial period with the Academy and we are very pleased he is joining us at this crucial stage of his career," - via NUFC Blog.
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For Fitzgerald, the move to Newcastle was a “no-brainer.” He also cited the influence of Alex Murphy, another Galway United product who has become a role model for Fitzgerald.
“I'm very happy. I had a few conversations with different clubs but as soon as Newcastle came in, it was a no-brainer for me.” 🗣️
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) February 13, 2025
Irish teenager Kyle Fitzgerald joins the club from Galway United! 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/8va8bOXKoX
Why Newcastle? Fitzgerald explains his Decision
Speaking to Newcastle United Official, Fitzgerald stated, "The project really attracted me. Steve Harper and Paul Midgley (Head of Youth Recruitment) showed me the pathway of players such as Alex Murphy, who has came through Galway's Academy and then signed for Newcastle like myself.
"Coming from Ireland into an English academy, there's a massive difference in quality and training. Back home, I was only training three nights a week whereas, at Newcastle, I'm training five to six mornings and then playing a match at the weekend."
As the Magpies aim to strengthen their squad at all levels, Fitzgerald’s journey will be one to watch. Fans will be eager to see if he can emulate the success of his predecessors and make the leap to the first team in the coming years.