Newcastle United complete late deadline day signing as director of football confirms deal

Newcastle United have completed the signing of young Shrewsbury Town midfielder Travis Hernes.

The 17-year-old has been involved in Shrewsbury’s first-team plans this season. He made his League One debut against Cheltenham Town on the opening day and also started the recent Carabao Cup clash at Leeds United

Hernes, a Norwegian youth international, signed his first professional contract last month but moves to St James’ Park after impressing on trial last week.

United had a bid accepted, which includes a sell-on clause and add-ons, with the player in the North East on Friday to finalise his switch.

Shrewsbury director of football Micky Moore said: “Travis is a fantastic young man and everyone at Shrewsbury would like to wish him luck for his move to Newcastle.

“When I joined the club in the summer, I said I was determined to create a pathway that will see more of our academy players progress into the first team.

“Travis made his league debut against Cheltenham this season and also played in front of 35,000 fans when he started at Leeds. Both those games were a great learning experience for him.

“There is a part of me that would have loved to see Travis stay so he could continue his development here and get more games in our first team.

“However, the deal we have agreed with Newcastle is right for us as a football club. We also didn’t want to stand in Travis’s way as this move is a wonderful opportunity for him.

“Everyone at the football club wishes Travis the very best for the future and we will all be keeping a close eye on his career.”

The Magpies have confirmed Hernes will link up with the club’s academy.

A club statement read: “Newcastle United have recruited Shrewsbury Town youngster Travis Hernes to the club’s Little Benton Academy.

“The 17-year-old central midfielder has started twice for Shrewsbury in League One this season, having signed his first professional deal with the Shrews last month.

“Born in Heradsbygda, Norway, he has represented his country at under-17 level. A product of Shrewsbury’s Academy, Travis made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy last season and marked the occasion with a goal against Wolves’ under-21 team.”