Jay Turner-Cooke’s loan move from Newcastle United to St Johnstone now appears to be imminent.
It was reported earlier this week that the 19-year-old could be loaned out by the Magpies before the transfer window closes, which seemed like a smart decision.
He went to Tranmere Rovers last season, and it is clear that he needs another loan spell to continue his development. Senior football is what he needs right now, and he is not going to get it at St James’ Park due to the competition for places in Eddie Howe‘s midfield.
Then came news that a move was on the horizon for Turner-Cooke, with St Johnstone close to signing the teenager on loan for the 2023/24 season.
It was claimed that he is going to have an integral role up in Scotland, and now the St Johnstone manager has confirmed that a deal is on the cards.
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Manager confirms he is signing Jay Turner-Cooke on loan
Steven MacLean has spoke to the Courier about Turner-Cooke’s imminent arrival from Newcastle.
“Jay has been involved with the Newcastle first team in pre-season,” he said.
“He was in the squad against Rangers and got some game-time against Villareal. He’s got a really good pedigree and Newcastle have high hopes for him.
“He showed a real eagerness to come here. He’s hungry to come to Scotland and do well.
“Jay was with Tranmere for the second half of last season and played a dozen games or so, so he has a bit of first team experience under his belt already.
“He is a box-to-box midfielder who can also play off the side as well, so he will add something to the squad.
“We’re happy to get him and hopefully he does well here.”
Hopefully it is a good decision by Newcastle
Newcastle will have high hopes for Turner-Cooke up at St Johnstone, but some Toon fans will still be scarred by another exciting teenager’s recent loan spell in Scotland.
Garang Kuol joined Hearts at the start of the year, and the move was largely disappointing. He enjoyed his time in Edinburgh, but he really struggled for minutes.
However, this move for Turner-Cooke should hopefully be different. The Saints already have big plans for the youngster, and are going to make him an integral part of their midfield.
It sounds like MacLean is very excited to work with JTC, and that JTC is very excited to work with him.
There is eagerness all round. Turner-Cooke was eager to join St Johnstone, and their manager was eager to welcome him to the club – so much so that he did it before the move was even made official by either side!
It has not been announced yet, but MacLean has now confirmed that a loan move to St Johnstone for Turner-Cooke is happening.