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Manchester United prospect aims to make instant impact after County move confirmed

STRIKER: Charlie McNeill has moved on loan to Newport County from Manchester United <i>(Image: Newport County AFC)</i>
STRIKER: Charlie McNeill has moved on loan to Newport County from Manchester United (Image: Newport County AFC)

MANCHESTER United prospect Charlie McNeill hopes to make an immediate impact for Newport County AFC after signing on loan for the rest of the season.

The Exiles have confirmed a deal for the 19-year-old striker, who is heading for Rodney Parade for a first proper taste of men’s football.

McNeill has been prolific in age-grade fixtures and will now aim to make the step up to League Two for shot-shy County, who have scored just nine goals in open play in the current campaign.

Graham Coughlan’s side welcome Swindon to Rodney Parade on Saturday with McNeill hoping to make his debut along with fellow January signings Harry Charsley and Matt Baker.

South Wales Argus: Charlie McNeill has moved on loan to Newport County from Manchester United
South Wales Argus: Charlie McNeill has moved on loan to Newport County from Manchester United

Charlie McNeill has moved on loan to Newport County from Manchester United (Image: Newport County AFC)

"I’m really proud and honoured to be representing this club,” said McNeill. "I know it’s a big club and a family-based club and I’m just really happy to be here.

"The gaffer made me feel really comfortable as soon as I spoke to him, he was really nice, he really sold it to me.

"I can’t wait to meet the lads, get training and hopefully play the game on Saturday.

"I like to get on the shoulder a lot, I like to finish chances and be on the end of stuff but I also like to create and be involved in everything."

After reportedly scoring over 600 goals for Manchester City, McNeill moved to United for a £750,000 fee that could rise.

He scored 24 goals in 21 goals in the Under-18 Premier League, including four against City, then scored 17 times in 32 games the following season.

McNeill has scored three goals in five EFL Trophy games this season and made his first team debut with a brief outing off the bench against Real Sociedad in October.

He will join Omar Bogle, Offrande Zanzala, Will Evans and Lewis Collins as an option up front, charged with scoring the goals to steer the club away from the relegation zone.