Newcastle United finally get one over on Manchester United in the transfer market as deal agreed

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United beat Newcastle United to the signing of Benjamin Sesko in August but the Magpies have now won a transfer battle against the Red Devils.

Sesko rejected Newcastle United to join Manchester United, while Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo also headed to Old Trafford after links with a move to St James’ Park.

Newcastle’s interest in Cunha and Mbeumo never looked as advanced as it did with Sesko but the fact they moved to Manchester has still been used as a stick to beat Eddie Howe’s side with.

So much was said about Newcastle’s supposed lack of pulling power during the transfer window.

However, at youth level, the club have continued their impressive recruitment drive. Now, they are reportedly set to land something of a coup ahead of their Old Trafford rivals.

• READ MORE: When does the 2026 January transfer window open? Newcastle United’s chance to make more signings

Newcastle set to beat Man United to Josh Kenchington signing

According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Newcastle have won the race to sign Barnsley defender Josh Kenchington.

The 15-year-old has reportedly been compared to England star John Stones, who also progressed through the Yorkshire club’s academy system before leaving for Everton in 2013.

A host of clubs were thought to be chasing Kenchington but Newcastle appear to have won out.

“The agreement is in place between Newcastle and Barnsley for him to sign,” he said.

“£350,000 I’m told. Significant add-ons if he does well. They believe he will do well.

“He’s been dubbed the new John Stones. Ball-playing centre-back, he’s over 6ft tall. He just turned 15 three weeks ago. He’s predominantly left-footed but can play with both feet, he’s meant to be the real deal.

“A number of clubs were interested in signing him. Manchester United, Tottenham, Brighton, so you’ll be pleased that you’ve beaten Manchester United to one, given what we saw with Mbeumo and Sesko and Cunha to a less extent over the summer.

“But you’ve beaten Manchester United to this young lad from Barnsley.”

Newcastle United repeating transfer trick after Liverpool coup

Clearly, a lot needs to happen before Kenchington becomes a regular in senior men’s football let alone for Newcastle United.

Putting too much pressure on a teenager, no matter how palpable the excitement, can be detrimental to their development.

Still, the club are clearly building for the future and that is promising. Back in August, Newcastle signed young Liverpool defender Isaac Moran. 

Newcastle may not see the benefits of their youth recruitment drive for years to come yet but it’s promising to hear they are beating big clubs to talented youngsters.