Newcastle academy chief Harper: Harrison a strategic transfer

Newcastle academy chief Steve Harper has explained their swoop for Alfie Harrison.

The midfielder, 18, joined the Magpies from Manchester City last week.

"We are delighted to secure Alfie's signature," Harper told Newcastle's club website. "His hunger to represent Newcastle United and continue his development here was obvious from the outset.

"He's a passionate, talented player who we are really looking forward to welcoming to the club and ultimately seeing in a black and white shirt.

"Alfie's signing is part of a strategic move to make our PDP group younger, particularly the Under-21s, and I would like to thank the board and everybody involved at the club in making this move happen."