Newcastle close to signing Cathal Heffernan from AC Milan

Newcastle set to sign Cathal Heffernan from AC Milan after successful trial, beating out Serie A clubs. Irish Examiner reports.

Newcastle United is on the brink of securing the signing of Cathal Heffernan from AC Milan, following a successful trial with the club. The talented Republic of Ireland underage star has already showcased his skills in two pre-season friendlies for the Magpies' Under-21 side.

According to the Irish Examiner, Heffernan is poised to make the move to Tyneside, with Newcastle United beating out interest from several Serie A clubs. This is a significant achievement for the Premier League outfit.

Heffernan, a highly-rated former Cork City defender, experienced a fairytale switch to AC Milan in January of last year. Initially joining on loan, the move was made permanent in the summer. The League of Ireland side reportedly received two substantial five-figure sums as part of the deal. However, they are now set to miss out on potential lucrative sell-on fees due to Heffernan's expected transfer to Newcastle United.

The Heffernan family boasts a prestigious sporting background. Both of Cathal's parents, Rob and Marian, have competed at the Olympics in race walking and the 400m relay, respectively. Now, Cathal will be joining fellow Galway native Alex Murphy at Newcastle United. Murphy made a strong impression in the Premier League Summer Series draw against Chelsea, having replaced Fabian Schar.

The same report reveals that Newcastle United is also engaged in "advanced negotiations" to secure the signing of Irish teenager Kevin Zefi from Inter Milan. Zefi, a winger, has spent the last two seasons in Inter Milan's youth ranks. During the 2020/21 season, he became the youngest-ever goalscorer in the League of Ireland at the age of just 15 years and 206 days.

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