Newcastle United await transfer decision as former West Ham midfielder visits St James’ Park

Newcastle United are confident of signing England youth international Divine Mukasa following his exit from West Ham United.

As first reported by NewcastleWorld, the young midfielder was on Tyneside just over a fortnight ago to hold face-to-face talks and be shown around St James’ Park.

Mukasa, who turns 16 in August, has also been approached by Scottish Premiership giants Rangers but the Magpies are hopeful they’ll come out on top.

The Three Lions under-16s star progressed through the academy ranks at West Ham. After starring for the under-15s and under-16s, the 15-year-old spent large parts of last season with the under-18s in which they secured a league and cup double.

He scored the goal that clinched the Premier League South title against Arsenal in April and was part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup. Although the Hammers appeared keen to retain Mukasa’s services, the player has opted for pastures new.

Bidding farewell earlier this month, Mukasa posted on Instagram: “Thank you to all the players and staff at West Ham that have helped to develop me into both the player and person that I am today.

“This club has been my home for the past 10 years and for it to come to an end is bittersweet but it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my career. Best of luck to everyone at the club ❤️⚒️”

The Mail Online reported earlier this week that Newcastle are set to sign Leo Shahar from Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers. Shahar is highly-rated by the Molineux club having featured regularly at under-18s last season, scoring twice in 15 league appearances.

United are also hoping to sign 16-year-old Birmingham City winger Trevan Sanusi.