Isaac Westendorf: The ‘fast and powerful’ striker Newcastle United have added to their ranks

Newcastle United have added young striker Isaac Westendorf to their academy set-up.

The 19-year-old has signed an 18-month contract on Tyneside following a successful trial, and links up with Elliott Dickman’s under-23s.

Westendorf played the final half-hour of the second string’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Monday evening.

Here, NewcastleWorld takes a closer look at Westendorf’s arrival:

Which clubs have Isaac Westendorf played for previously?

He last played for Barking FC in Isthmian League North Division during the 2020/21 season.

Westendorf, described as “fast and powerful” was a regular scorer for the East London side, all whilst dealing with the physical nature of non-league.

It was there where Westendorf manage to earn a trial with Newcastle’s under-23s.

How has he performed at Newcastle so far?

Westendorf scored two goals in three appearances for United’s youngsters before being handed a permanent deal on Monday.

His first outing came against Middlesbrough during October’s Premier League 2 Tyne-Tees derby, where United ran out 4-1 winners at St James’ Park.

As a substitute, Westendorf had a debut goal ruled out, while he also brought a late save from Boro goalkeeper Max Metcalfe.

A few days later, Westendorf was named in the starting XI for the Premier League Cup tie with Birmingham City, and he delivered with a first-half goal.

Westendorf latched onto an aerial ball by Jonjo Shelvey to fire home during a 4-0 victory at Whitley Park.

Then, the player found the net again, this time in a 3-1 win at Northern League Division One side Newcastle Benfield in the Northumberland Senior Cup.

Despite his strong form, it was presumed that Westendorf had failed to win a permanent contract having not featured in the under-23s squad since October.

However, it was announced before Monday’s 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest that Westendorf had indeed signed an 18-month contract.

Which other strikers are in Newcastle’s under-23s?

Westendorf will rival Dylan Stephenson and Cameron Ferguson for a starting XI, plus Santiago Munoz when he ends his mystery absence.

Stephenson is a man in form for Dickman’s side, scoring 13 goals this campaign.