18-year-old gem is Newcastle’s young player to watch out for in 2023, he’s a ‘special talent’

Add as preferred source on Google

Garang Kuol has to be Newcastle United’s young player to watch out for in 2023.

The 18-year-old is set to officially become a Magpie in January, having already agreed a move to St James’ Park from A-League side Central Coast Mariners.

Despite having only signed his first professional contract with the Mariners in June, the Tyneside club confirmed they had signed the youngster just three months later, reportedly for an initial £300,000.

The forward impressively cameoed at the World Cup with Australia in recent weeks. Having made his international debut less than two months prior, the youngster came off the bench in two matches for the Socceroos. Coincidentally, these came against both tournament finalists: France in the group stage and Argentina in the round of 16.

Now, the attacker will have his sights set on the Toon, as he prepares to make the move in the new year.

Kuol one to watch in 2023

According to a report by The Telegraph, Newcastle are currently debating whether or not to send Kuol out on loan to a Championship club for the remainder of the season.

This would certainly be a test for the 18-year-old, who has only made 15 appearances in the A-League.

The football would be far more physical, but this would allow an adjustment period to the English game.

However, that would be dependent on obtaining a work permit. The Athletic claim now the youngster has World Cup appearances under his belt, he is more likely to be granted one.

Alternatively, the striker is reportedly of interest to teams in Germany and Portugal. This could be the perfect destination, as the lower-level tiers could prove to be a steppingstone to the Championship the following season.

Kuol has truly burst onto the scene over the past year, having been dubbed a ‘special talent’ by former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke.

It will be interesting to see just how quickly he continues to grow over the course of 2023, and whether he will be offered any opportunities with the first-team if deemed appropriate.