Newcastle United have completed the signing of 19-year-old striker Afner Ca from Levante on a five-year contract, with the club aiming to strengthen their development squad. The Guinea-Bissau forward, who stands at 6ft 4in, has been described as an academy signing and will initially link up with the club's Under-21 team.
Beating European Competition for Ca's Signature
The Magpies secured Ca's signature ahead of Spanish clubs Villarreal and Valencia, who were also monitoring the teenager. Ca spent time at Amora Under-19s before joining Levante, but left the Spanish side this summer. Newcastle moved quickly to bring him to St James' Park.
During his spell with Amora, Ca scored 14 goals in 27 appearances, which caught Levante's attention. He can also operate as a right winger, adding versatility to his game.
Sporting Director on Recruitment Strategy
Sporting director Ross Wilson highlighted the club's commitment to expanding their recruitment network. "Moving forward, we definitely want to expand our recruitment network. We've already done that, to be honest, in my time here. We've already expanded the recruitment network. We'll continue to do so as we move forward," Wilson said.
He added: "I think it's also clear that we feel that it's highly likely, not always, but highly likely that there'll be more value outside of the Premier League than there is in it."
Part of Youth Recruitment Drive
Ca is one of several youth signings made by Newcastle this summer, as the club looks to build a strong foundation for the future. The five-year deal gives Ca time to develop and work his way through the ranks, with the Under-21 season set to kick off soon.
Newcastle United continue to invest in their academy, aiming to unearth talent that can eventually break into the first team. Ca's arrival is seen as a long-term investment for the club.
