Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of highly-rated Chelsea teenager Lewis Hall.
The 18-year-old announced himself on the big stage last season, breaking out as one of the finest talents to come through the youth system.
Hall made 12 senior appearances for the Blues and dazzled with several impressive performances toward the end of the campaign, creating five big chances from left back.
The teenage prodigy was touted for big things at Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea’s reckless splurging ultimately limited his progress in the first team with up to four left backs on the Blues roster.
Hall dropped the pecking order, and a move to Newcastle could mark a significant turning point in his career, with the youngster destined to blossom into an unreal talent at St James’ Park.
“I’m very proud,” Hall said. “Me and my family are Newcastle fans, and for me and my brother growing up, it was drilled into us that we were Newcastle. It’s a big club, and I can’t wait to get started.
“I got a lot of experience last year in some big fixtures, and I was really proud of the way I progressed as a player and a person.
“To now be here at Newcastle, the club that I’ve supported since I was a kid, I’m honoured and very proud to wear this shirt.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Lewis [Hall] to Newcastle United.
“He is a player we have tracked closely, as have a number of clubs, so it’s very pleasing to secure him and to add a player of his quality, versatility and high potential to our squad.”
Hall, who was named Chelsea’s Academy Player of the Year for the 2022/23 season, becomes Newcastle’s fifth signing of the Premier League transfer window.
The youngster joins on a season-long loan, with Newcastle retaining an option to make the purchase permanent for around £30 million.
Hall is poised to give Dan Burn a run for his money at left back and becomes the second Chelsea academy graduate to join the Magpies after Tino Livramento.
