‘New chapter’ - Teenager confirms he has joined Newcastle United from Premier League rivals

Newcastle United have further strengthened their academy by signing a player from one of their Premier League rivals.

Sammy Pinnington, 14, has joined from Luton Town and is expected to link up with the Magpies’ under-15s and under-16s squads for the 2023-24 seaason.

The move was confirmed by the teenager on social media after he uploaded a photo in the tunnel at St James’ Park holding a ‘Pinnington 7’ shirt.

“Thank you God for this new challenge,” Pinnington posted. “Really happy to have signed with Newcastle United and start this new project.

“Thank you to all at Luton Town for seven great years and helping me develop as a player. Very excited to get started and begin this new chapter in my life.”

Having signed Sam Alabi from Oldham Athletic and Kacey Wooster from Southend United, the arrival of young winger Michael Mills was confirmed by Port Vale on Tuesday afternoon.

A club statement read: “We can confirm that a training compensation agreement has been reached and the transfer of Michael Mills’ registration to Newcastle United has been complete.

“Michael has been an exciting player for the Valiants and caught the eye of Newcastle United after a period on trial with them.”

Similar to Pinnington, Mills is expected to link up with Newcastle’s under-15s and under-16s squad.

Port Vale head of academy Will Ryder said: “Since arriving in my role at the academy I’ve always reiterated that the club is built on opportunity whether that’s for staff or for players. We are delighted to play a part in providing a platform for Michael’s next steps in his footballing journey.

“Michael was originally identified by myself and our Head of Recruitment Kevin Scott and following a successful trial, Michael was signed as an under-13 in the youth development phase.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing where Michael’s programme and future pathway take him, I’d like to thank Newcastle for their open dialogue throughout the process, they have acted with honesty and integrity from the start and I look forward to staying in touch with them and following Michael’s progress.

“I wish Michael and Newcastle all the best for the future.”