Man Utd prospect in talks with Newport County over temporary switch | OneFootball

Manchester United striker Charlie McNeill is in talks to join Newport County on a temporary basis, according to a report from the Daily Mail.

It is understood that McNeill is keen to play regularly at senior level between now and the end of the campaign.

The 19-year-old joined United from rivals Manchester City in 2020 for a fee believed to be in the region of £750,000.

McNeill spent the previous campaign on a work experience loan at Sheffield Wednesday which allowed him to train with the first team but denied him the opportunity to play any games for the League One outfit.

Earlier this season, the striker made his competitive debut for the Red Devils in their Europa League clash with Real Sociedad.

Since achieving this personal milestone, the forward has not been given another opportunity to showcase his ability by Erik ten Hag.

Newport have already engaged in some transfer activity this month.

The Welsh outfit signed Harry Charsley on a permanent deal from Port Vale while Matt Baker recently joined the club on loan from Stoke City.

In terms of significant outgoings, Hayden Lindley, Thierry Nevers and Chanka Zimba have all returned to their parent-clubs following loan spells with Newport while Robbie Willmott and Matty Dolan have both been allowed to leave the club.

Whereas Willmott is set to return to The Exiles following the conclusion of the 2022/23 campaign, Dolan will complete a permanent switch to Hartlepool United later this year.

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1. Where did Newport finish in League Two last season?

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The Verdict

When you consider that Newport have only scored 24 league goals during the current term, they will be hoping that McNeill will be able to provide some much-needed firepower if they finalise a deal for him today.

Yet to play in League Two during his fledgling career, it may take the striker a few games to adjust to life in this division.

Given that McNeill has managed to provide four direct goal contributions in the EFL Trophy for United’s Under-21 side this season, it would not be at all surprising if he eventually establishes himself as a key member of Newport’s squad.

McNeill could go on to make considerable strides in terms of his development by featuring week-in, week-out for a Newport side who will be aiming to avoid the prospect of being dragged into a relegation battle by the likes of Rochdale, Gillingham and Hartlepool United.