Left for £0, now the next Sancho: NUFC will have nightmares over 18 y/o "huge talent" - opinion

Newcastle United have had their fair share of success stories to come out of their St. James’ Park academy over the years.

Whilst current first-team players Paul Dummett and Sean Longstaff graduated from the system, the club also had joy in the past with famous names such as Paul Gascoigne and Andy Carroll.

However, some players have slipped through their grasp at youth level and ended up excelling elsewhere in their career. This has been the case so far with young midfielder Shola Shoretire, who is currently at Manchester United.

The Magpies lost him on a free transfer to Manchester City in January 2014 before he joined their rivals – the Red Devils – in the summer of that year.

Since arriving at Old Trafford, he has caught the eye and been able to soar through the ranks to make his way into the first team.

He produced 16 goals and 14 assists in 43 games for the U23’s as he played across the frontline – on both flanks and in the number 10 role. This shows that he has excelled at youth level for the club and his form has earned him high praise.

Ex-Man United player Luke Chadwick previously hailed the youngster, saying: “He (Shoretire) is a hugely talented player.

“I watched him play in the youth team as an Under-16 player, he was so clever – fantastic awareness, knows how to play on the half turn, can see a pass as well. He’s so sharp in his mind and even if he doesn’t start a lot of matches yet, he can come on in games and make an impact.”

Similar sentiments are also held by talent scout Jacek Kulig who called the teenager a “huge talent” after analysing his performances.

At the time of writing (22/03/22), he is valued at £2.7m by Transfermarkt despite turning 18 last month. This is some rise from when he left St.