Rory Finneran has bid farewell to Blackburn Rovers ahead of his imminent move to Newcastle United.
The 16-year-old wrote himself into the Rovers’ history books in January by becoming their youngest-ever debutant at 15-years-old, 10 months and eight days. He was introduced as a late substitute in a FA Cup tie against Cambridge United.
The midfielder featured regularly for the under-21s last season and represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level. Rovers tried to convince him to stay but a switch to St James’ Park is reportedly all-but complete.
“Newcastle have agreed deal to sign Rory Finneran (2008), top talent set to join the club from Blackburn Rovers,” Fabrizio Romano posted on X. “Verbal agreement in place for captain of the Republic of Ireland Under 17’s to be part of Magpies project for the future.
“Understand Rory Finneran will sign his contract as new Newcastle player today. He’s considered a huge talent. Deal done.”
Finneran has already bid farewell to Blackburn. A message on Instagram read: “I would like to say a massive thank you to all the coaches, staff and my teammates at Blackburn over the past 8 years at the club for supporting and helping me develop.
“It has been an amazing journey, from signing at u8’s to making my first team debut, I have enjoyed every moment and wish the best for everyone at the club. I felt it was the time for a new challenge and I am very excited for the next step in my career.”
Newcastle United under-21s and under-18s are currently searching for new head coaches following Ben Dawson’s move to Leicester City and Graeme Carrick’s move to Middlesbrough. The Magpies have recently appointed Jack Brazil as the club’s new Under-16s head coach ahead of the 2024-25 season.
