West Ham United winger pictured with Newcastle United shirt as triple deal confirmed

The Magpies have brought in 16-year-old striker Kayden Lucas from Clevedon Town. Better known as ‘Chumpy’, Lucas netted nine times in six appearances for their under-18s, four of which came in one game in front United scouts.

“I’m over the moon for Chumpy,” said Clevedon manager Alex White. “He’s chasing a dream, and this is a very positive step in that direction. He’s a humble lad and has a brilliant attitude with obvious talent, but now the hard work starts for him.

“It’s been a pleasure to have him as part of the club and help in a small way on his journey. For the club, it’s obviously a great story and emphasizes the strong pathway and platform we provide for young players to develop and for their talents to be recognized and showcased, but all the credit for this one belongs to our Under 18 Manager Lee Archer.” Archer, a former professional footballer with Bristol Rovers, added: “He’s raw and he’s got lots to work on, but as a club it’s what you want with a kid at his age.

“Chumpy deserves it all for the hard work he’s put in and for never giving up. The thing with Chumpy is he’s such a lovely lad and an amazing individual; as a person he’s well rounded, confident but not arrogant and he has his feet firmly on the ground.

“I know it won’t go to his head and I know Newcastle will treat him properly and if it’s right off the field for Chumpy, his head will be in the game on the pitch. ’m really excited to see what happens next, but we’ll stay in touch, and we’ll always be here for him.”

Newcastle have also brought in 16-year-old defender Aaron Epia from Everton. As previously reported by NewcastleWorld, Epia was offered a new contract on Merseyside but opted to move to the North East.

Bidding farewell to the Toffees, Epia wrote: “I want to thank all the staff and players at @everton that have helped support my development over the last 7 years, I’ve had a great journey.

“It has been a tough decision to decide but I feel like the time has come for me to find a new challenge, I want to wish the club all the best for the future."

Meanwhile, Ezra Tika-Lemba, who already has a sponsorship deal with Puma, has joined the academy system from West Ham United.

Newcastle have made great strides in strengthening the academy since the takeover in October 2021. Last summer, an array of talent also arrived, including the likes of Leo Shahar, Traven Sanusi, Travis Hernes and Cathal Heffernan.