Newcastle so close in chase for Aussie wonderkid Garang Kuol – Sport News

Newcastle United are reportedly close to signing young Australian forward Garang Kuol on a permanent deal.

The 18-year-old currently plies his trade for Central Coast Mariners in the A-League and his performances have attracted various suitors from around the globe.

Despite rumoured interest from Celtic, it looks like Newcastle have done enough to secure the signature of the highly-rated forward.

According to Sky Sports, the only stumbling block surrounding the transfer is when it comes to sealing a work permit for the youngster.

The Magpies hierarchy are already looking at ways around work permit issues – with a potential loan move to a European side an option.

Kuol first put himself on the map with a performance for the A-League All Stars against Barcelona in a pre-season friendly.

Barcelona boss Xavi heaped praise on the youngster following his cameo.

Xavi said: ‘[He’s] very fast, he created many chances. We concede two or three chances because of him. So a great .er and a great future. He’s a talent.’

In another exciting cameo, Kuol recently made his international debut against New Zealand  becoming the youngest Socceroo to . for Australia since Harry Kewell.

Kuol came on with his side already a goal up and the teenager helped to secure the friendly victory with his good work resulting in a penalty  which was successfully converted by former Shrewsbury Town man Jason Cummings.

The winger picked the ball up deep in his own half before racing past his opponents, demonstrating his pace. Kuol then squared the ball across the box w. a scramble resulted in a New Zealand handball.

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Newcastle have spent big since their new owners came in but Kuol will be regarded as a .er for the future and a cheaper alternative to big-money options.

If a work permit can’t be secured during the January transfer window, the Australian is likely to link up with his Newcastle team-mates next summer.