Sky Sports: Newcastle wants to boost their Academy and has taken a step towards signing one of Rangers Star player
Newcastle United have continued their ambitious drive to strengthen their youth setup by finalising the signing of highly-rated Rangers prospect Alfie Hutchinson. The 16-year-old, who is capable of playing both as a central striker and as a wide forward, becomes the latest addition to the Magpies’ ever-improving academy system.
Deal Confirmed for Scottish Youth Talent
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano was among the first to report the deal last week, confirming that Newcastle had beaten off competition from multiple Premier League rivals to secure Hutchinson’s signature. The Italian journalist revealed via X (formerly Twitter):
> “Newcastle complete deal to sign talent Alfie Hutchison from Rangers, agreement in place. NUFC beat several Premier League clubs to secure the 16-year-old striker for the academy.”
While initial reports left the exact timing of Hutchinson’s move somewhat unclear, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph later confirmed that the transfer had been finalised and made official on Monday, July 1st. According to Joseph, Hutchinson successfully completed a medical and agreed personal terms with Newcastle, who offered the teenager a long-term contract to join their youth ranks.
Rapid Rise Through the Ranks
Hutchinson’s football journey has been swift and impressive. Having joined Rangers from Heart of Midlothian in early 2024, he wasted little time making an impact. The young forward notably featured for Rangers’ under-19s in the Glasgow Cup and made headlines by scoring twice on his debut in a 4-2 win over Queen’s Park.
Speaking after his goal-scoring debut in the prestigious youth competition, Hutchinson expressed his delight:
> “It’s a really good feeling. It was my debut in the tournament, so it was great to start off with two goals.
The first goal just fell to me inside the six-yard box. It was all about controlling my touch, turning quickly, and making sure the shot was on target. I feel comfortable playing both through the middle and off the flanks—both roles suit me well.”
A Double Raid on Rangers
Hutchinson is not the only Scottish talent Newcastle are targeting this summer. The club is also close to completing a deal for another Rangers youngster, Oliver Goodbrand, who is also expected to move to Tyneside after undergoing a medical last month.
Goodbrand’s transfer has been in the works since at least April, with reports from The Daily Record suggesting that the two clubs were close to an agreement. Rangers were reportedly eager to retain the promising player by offering professional terms, but Newcastle’s offer—likely including a clearer pathway to first-team opportunities—appears to have won him over.
Strategic Focus on Youth Development
Newcastle United’s aggressive recruitment of young talents fits within a broader strategy that has taken shape since the Saudi-backed consortium completed its takeover in October 2021. The club has placed a renewed emphasis on investing in the academy, seeking to not only develop future first-team stars but also to navigate the stringent Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
With PSR placing financial limits on club spending, nurturing homegrown players has become a vital part of Newcastle’s long-term planning. Developing talent internally is not only cost-effective, but it also allows the club to sell players who do not make the senior team—thereby generating pure profit and balancing the financial books.
This marks a stark contrast from the previous ownership era under Mike Ashley, when youth development was largely underfunded and overlooked. Under the leadership of Eddie Howe and the new regime, however, there is a clear commitment to building a sustainable foundation for success—starting from the academy up.
Looking Ahead
As Hutchinson and potentially Goodbrand make the move to Tyneside, they will join a Newcastle academy that is quickly becoming one of the most exciting in the country. With new facilities, experienced coaching staff, and a manager who is not afraid to give young players a chance, the future looks bright for the Magpies’ next generation.