Newcastle Set to Announce First Summer Signing

Posted on June 17, 2013 by Himanshu Dhingra in Academy, Categories // 1 Comment

Continuing with their policy to scout for talent in France, Newcastle United are set to confirm the signing of French U-17 International Olivier Kemen.

The 16 year old Kemen is an attacking midfielder who plays for Ligue 2 club Metz and can operate on either flank as a winger, operate as a number 10 or play alongside someone right up top.

Born in Cameroon, Kemen started his career in La Garenne-Colombes aged 8. Aged 14 he went to the Elite 14 in AC Boulogne Billancourt (ACBB) from where he was recruited by Metz.

The midfielder is a strong athletic powerful player who likes to make good use of the ball. Alex Song of Barcelona and formerly of Arsenal is an idol of Kemen.

A youth International, Kemen has represented France under – 17 side three times and under – 16 six times. His last appearance for U-17s was against Greece in a 2-2 draw.

The player has agreed a deal with the Magpies and the compensation now needs to be agreed upon between the clubs. Given the fact the player is highly rated in France the compensation could be between €400k-€1m which is pretty steep for a teenager.

Let’s hope he is one of many to join the academy this summer.