While much of the Newcastle transfer news this month has circulated around the Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, Eddie Howe has only just agreed to a deal with Pep Guardiola to sign... Phillips' teammate.
Newcastle transfer news: Eddie Howe AGREES to sign Manchester City midfielder
Yep, that's right. According to David Ornstein (who is one of the most reliable sources when it comes to transfer news), Newcastle United have reached an agreement to sign the 18-year-old Manchester City midfield talent Alfie Harrison.
Here's what the Athletic journalist had to say, posting to X (formerly Twitter): "Newcastle reach agreement with Man City to sign midfield talent Alfie Harrison for undisclosed fee. 18yo to undergo medical in coming days before signing long-term contract. #NUFC pursuit centred on clear path towards 1st team"
I must say, it's great to finally land a midfield signing. While he isn't in the calibre a lot of fans would've expected at the start of the season, it must be said that it feels like a breath of fresh air to almost have a signing wrapped up.
Like no other team, Newcastle have needed to strengthen in the midfield but due to FFP regulations, have struggled to sign the players they can afford to sign under new ownership.
Alfie Harrison, while he is yet to make the mainstream limelight, has had an impressive season in the Man City academy. The 18-year-old has shown plenty of attacking flair, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in just eight games. That's an average of 1.25 goal contributions every game, which would certainly be welcomed at Newcastle.
It remains to be seen whether or not he can make it on the big stage, but given Newcastle's intent to involve him in the first-team at some point, the recruitment team certainly see something in him. We might've uncovered a future star to partner Miley in the midfield.
What do you make of today's Newcastle's transfer news?