Newcastle could do early deal for teenage history-maker at St James' Park

Newcastle United could complete a ‘deal’ for Central Coast Mariners striker Garang Kuol in January, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Magpies have been heavily linked with a move for the highly-rated 18-year-old in recent weeks as they look to continue their revolution under their new mega-rich owners.

A report from BeIn Sports Australia (via The Sun) has claimed that Kuol has agreed personal terms worth £25,000-per-week with Newcastle and is set to sign a long-term contract.

It’s believed that the plan is for the teenager to stay at the A-League side until the winter window before joining up with Eddie Howe’s charges where he will then be immediately loaned out.

Newcastle have reportedly only paid a minimal fee for Kuol, but the Mariners could receive more financial reward for the prized asset in the future through add-ons and a sell-on clause.

Kuol and his family fled Sudan, the country of his birth, and then grew up in Egypt before they moved to Australia as refugees.

And the forward received a shock call-up to the senior Socceroos squad for the current international break, becoming the youngest player to debut for the nation since Harry Kewell after coming on as a second-half substitute in a 2-0 victory over New Zealand.

Downie has informed GiveMeSport that bringing in youngsters such as Kuol who Newcastle can ‘develop’ and turn into ‘top players’ is part of their strategy and long-term thinking.

He said: “As well as the top talent Newcastle are looking at, bringing in guys like (Alexander) Isak and (Sven) Botman, they want to bring in young guys like this who they can develop as well and turn into top players.

“So, he would be a perfect example of the sort of player they’re looking to bring to the