Celtic, Rangers & Southampton eyeing Newcastle United target

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 08: Ben Chapman of Dulwich Hamlet is challenged by Jarrad Branthwaite of Carlisle United during the FA Cup First Round match between Dulwich Hamlet and Carlisle United at Champion Hill on November 08, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

Newcastle United look set to be rivalled by two Scottish giants in a bid to land Jarrad Branthwaite – but the Magpies are understood to have first refusal on the young Carlisle United prospect.

Rangers and Southampton have already been credited with an interest in the Carlisle-born central defender but, according to the Scottish Sun, Neil Lennon’s Celtic are also monitoring the 17-year-old’s progress.

Reports over the weekend claimed United were scouting the player – and the Gazette understands the Magpies’ youth talent spotting team are being kept informed of the player’s progress. As part of the Elias Sorensen loan deal at Brunton Park, United are understood to have first refusal on the player.

Last month Branthwaite became Carlisle's youngest ever scorer.

Speaking recently about scouts watching him, Branthwaite said: “I don’t take notice of that sort of thing. I just concentrate on my own game. I'm humble and don't get carried away.”

Celtic, Rangers & Southampton eyeing Newcastle United target – but Magpies in the driving seat