'Personally' - Eddie Howe rules out Newcastle United transfer for ex-Liverpool & Man Utd target

The 17-year-old has formed part of Eddie Howe’s first-team squad in recent weeks, travelling to Germany and Japan as well as featuring in friendlies on home soil.

Sanusi was introduced for the final half-hour in wins over Hull City and Urawa Red Diamonds, and played the second-half in matches against SpVgg Unterhaching, Girona and Stade Brestois.

He appeared in both of United’s Sela weekender games at St James’ Park with his performance versus Girona on Friday best summing up the excitement around him.

The winger’s pace and trickery are his main attributes but Howe is keen for him to develop physically. And to do that, Newcastle’s boss believes Sanusi is best placed to remain on Tyneside.

“Personally I think it’s too early to loan him,” Howe told NewcastleWorld. “The biggest thing we have to do is develop his talent and keep improving his game but also develop him physically.

“I thought he did well [against Girona], I think he’s got bits to learn. Of course for someone his age he’s got tactical things to improve and we’ve got to build him up physically to make sure he’s robust enough to deal with the rigours that will come from the Premier League.

“But he’s certainly left a positive impression on us. I’m really pleased with him.”

An England under-17s international, Sanusi reportedly attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City before moving to Newcastle from Birmingham City last summer.

Sanusi made 22 appearances for the club’s academy last season, namely with the under-18s before making the step up into the under-21s. He also featured in the UEFA Youth League.

He was rewarded with his first professional contract in May.

“It’s overwhelming and a dream come true to sign my first professional contract as I’ve been working for it for my whole life,” said Sanusi. “I’m really excited to keep pushing on and prove to everyone who gave me that contract.

“I stayed humble and didn’t expect it. I kept working hard until I got the contract, which I have now, but I’ll keep on working and won’t be stopping.

“I see a very good pathway in the Academy and trying to make it into the first-team. I back myself to play as well as possible and try to do that, following in the footsteps of those who have done so this season.”