Newcastle United snubbed as young midfielder agrees Man City move after West Ham release

Newcastle United have reportedly missed out on signing England youth international Divine Mukasa.

As reported by NewcastleWorld in July, the Magpies held face-to-face with Mukasa and his agent, who were given a tour around St James’ Park and the club’s Benton training base.

Musaka left West Ham United in the summer. After starring for their under-15s and under-16s, the 16-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 were desperate to retain Mukasa’s services, the midfielder has opted for pastures new.

And according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Mukasa has opted to join Premier League champions Manchester City.

Romano tweeted: “Manchester City poised to sign talented England U17 midfielder Divine Mukasa from West Ham — here we go, confirmed Long term deal agreed — to be formally sealed in next 48h.

“City keep going for best talents as their Academy remains crucial part of the club’s project.”

As well as Newcastle and Man City, Scottish giants Rangers also registered an interest.

Mukasa recently posted a farewell message to the Hammers. He 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 ❤️⚒️”

Although Mukasa’s decision is disappointing news, the club can reflect on a positive summer in terms of academy recruitment.

United have made a number of additions , including under-21s pair Cathal Heffernan and Reece Byrne.

Heffernan joined from Serie A giants AC Milan, while his countryman Byrne arrived in June. Both players have represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level.

Meanwhile, Michael Mills of League One side Port Vale, Oldham Athletic prospect Sam Alabi and Kacey Wooster of Southend United have joined the Magpies’ academy ranks at under-15s and under-16s level.