Newcastle United are ready to seal the signing of AC Milan prospect Cathal Heffernan in the coming days.

The Republic of Ireland youth star has already been playing for the Magpies' under-21 side, per Chronicle Live.

Milan have given him permission to do so, as a deal is all but agreed between both parties.

The Irish Examiner adds that Heffernan will become the club's latest academy recruit.

Under director of football Dean Ashworth, Newcastle have focused a lot on young players.

The club wants to secure the world's best talent to avoid having to pay for ready made superstars every summer.