Newcastle United central midfielder Baran Yıldız has spoken to the Turkish media about his unexpected move to St James’ Park.
The 18-year-old signed for the Premier League side from Gençlerbirligi during the last transfer window.
Speaking to [Fotomac](https://x.com/fotomac/status/1929850724847894885), the youngster was asked how he felt after getting such a big move to Newcastle United so early into his career.
Yıldız said he was surprised by the move to England and that his initial objective was to get a transfer to a Turkish Super Lig club.
_“I couldn’t believe it. Actually, I didn’t expect anything like this at the age of 18. My dream was to play in the Super Lig and leave, but I jumped that level directly. It was a very surprising offer for me as well,”_ said the midfielder.
Yıldız has yet to play senior football and this season was involved with Gençlerbirligi’s U19s team. In total he played 27 games across all the Turkish side’s age groups, scoring seven goals.
However, it seems unlikely he will break into Newcastle United’s first team ahead of the next campaign given the competition for places, and a loan move this summer could give him much needed first team football.
There has been speculation he could be loaned to a Turkish club for a season in order to gain experience, and that would negate the need for a work permit.