Newcastle United confirm signing of teenage defender Charlie McArthur

Newcastle United have confirmed the arrival of Charlie McArthur from Kilmarnock.

The 17-year-old looks set to join the club's Under-18 set-up and will feature in the Academy league with the new manager of the youth team yet to be confirmed. Newcastle say they have beaten off interest from some of their top-flight rivals.

A United statement read: "United are pleased to confirm the signing of young defender Charlie McArthur from Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock subject to international clearance. "The 17-year-old centre-back, who captained Scotland at this summer's Under-17 European Championship in Israel, made his senior debut for Killie as a 16-year-old in October 2021 during a Scottish Challenge Cup last-16 win against Queen's Park.

"The defender made a further three appearances for the 2021/22 Scottish Championship winners, including his league bow in April during a 1-1 draw against Raith Rovers.

"The promising youngster, who attracted strong interest from a number of Premier League clubs, will link up with United's under-18 side ahead of the 2022/23 campaign."