According to The Sun, as cited by HITC, Newcastle United are monitoring the situation of Norwich City goalkeeper Jon McCracken. The youngster is facing an uncertain future at Carrow Road, which has put the Magpies on red alert, although they could face stiff competition from Premier League rivals Burnley. The Clarets have even taken the goalkeeper on trial, according to some reports.
Who is Jon McCracken?
McCracken began his youth career at his local club Wishaw Wycombe before moving to the under-17 side of Hamilton Academical. However, a move to England followed in 2016, when he was offered the chance to join Norwich City.
The youngster wasn’t a regular with the Norwich U-18 side, having made just 11 appearances in the Premier League U-18 during the span of two seasons. He was, however, promoted to the reserve side last summer, as the 19-year-old ended up making an impressive 13 appearances out of 22 matches in the Premier League 2 last season. He had even trained with the first-team, at times.
McCracken also featured for the Scotland youth teams, making a combined six appearances for the Under-16 and Under-17 sides respectively.
And the youngster was expected to get the promotion to the senior side at some point next season given the Canaries’ lack of depth in the goalkeeping department. But, that could change with the recent addition of Ralf Fahrmann. As a result, both Newcastle and Burnley are exploring the opportunity of signing this highly talented keeper.
Should Newcastle United make a move for McCracken?
Newcastle do not necessarily need the acquisition of a new goalkeeper this summer as they already have Martin Dubravka as their number one choice in between the sticks. They also have Karl Darlow as their number two.
However, it was reported last month that Newcastle United were willing to undergo an overhaul in the goalkeeping department, with Rob Elliott likely to leave the club. McCracken, in that case, could be a smart alternative for the veteran ‘keeper.
The Norwich star is pretty young and has room to improve. Besides, he is unlikely to demand regular game-time and can also be utilised in the reserve team – making him an ideal signing for the Magpies.
