Newcastle United Enter Race To Sign Under 17 International Who Has Been Likened To Levi Colwill
Newcastle United are one of several English clubs who are keeping close tabs on Senegalese Under-17 international Serigne Afia Ndao.
The defender is currently at the Be Sport Academy in Dakar, and a statement from them on Facebook (quotes translated by Sport Witness) reveals that he is “on the radar” of the Magpies.
Ndao has already had trials at Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town, while Matthias Jaissle’s team, Wolves, Burnley, Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah and Benfica are also monitoring his progress.
The teenager could be named in Senegal’s squad for the Under-17 World Cup next month, but if he isn’t included, there is a good chance that he will travel back to the UK for more trials.
Ndao has been likened to Colwill and 2 other ex-Chelsea players
Former Burton Albion and AFC Wimbledon manager Mark Robinson is now head coach of Ipswich Town’s Under 18s, and Be Sport Academy claim that he gave the youngster a ringing endorsement.
Robinson is said to have “placed” Ndao in the “same category as Levi Colwill, Trevor Chalobah, and Ben Chilwell, whom he coached a few years ago.”
If he is as good as those players, then it is not a surprise that Newcastle are seriously exploring a move for him.
He would not be able to join Newcastle United immediately
Ndao is still only 16 years of age. He turns 17 in December, but as British clubs cannot officially sign foreign players below the age of 18, the defender’s transfer would need to be delayed until the start of 2028.
The number of clubs looking to take him on trial, though, suggests that isn’t much of an issue. We shall have to wait and see whether he does end up at St James’ Park.