Newcastle United’s senior recruitment has had its challenges in recent years, but the club’s renewed focus on smart project signings and academy development is already paying off.
With clearer pathways to first-team football, we’ve seen the rise of Lewis Miley and several standout talents progressing through the under-18s and under-21s. At the same time, Newcastle have been active on the global stage, securing highly-rated prospects such as Park Seung-Soo—who’s made an instant impact—and beating European giants Real Madrid and Barcelona to land Antonio Cordero from Malaga.
And the momentum hasn’t stopped. Another exciting arrival is on the horizon, as a promising youngster prepares to mark his 18th birthday with a move to Tyneside.
Salia bids farewell before Newcastle switch
Georgian forward Vakhtang Salia will officially become a Newcastle United player once he turns 18 on Saturday, August 30.
The Magpies struck an agreement with Dinamo Tbilisi back in October, and after months of anticipation, the versatile attacker is finally set to link up with his new club.
In a heartfelt farewell on Instagram, Salia reflected on his time at Dinamo:
“The moment has come when I have to say goodbye to my home club. It’s not easy, but I know it’s part of football and the next step in my career.
I grew up at Dinamo, progressed through almost every age group, and made my breakthrough with the first team. I’ll never forget my debut goal against Torpedo.
Everything I’ve learned in football came from this club, and I’m thankful to my coaches, teammates, staff, and supporters. I know the road ahead is long, but I’ll give everything to succeed. This is a farewell, but I believe we’ll meet again. Blue and white forever!”
Often compared to PSG star and fellow Georgian Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Salia is well aware of the importance of this move and what it could mean for his career trajectory.
What’s next for Salia?
Unfortunately, his age means he couldn’t take part in Newcastle’s pre-season, something that benefited Park Seung-Soo when he was immediately handed first-team minutes before joining the U-21s.
If Salia doesn’t follow the same path, a loan move abroad could be the most likely option—mirroring the route of Cordero, who is currently gaining valuable experience with Belgian top-flight side K.V.C. Westerlo.
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