Newcastle win the race to sign Nigeria-eligible teenage striker Trevan Sanusi from Birmingham City

ENGLISH Premier League giants Newcastle United have won the race to sign Golden Eaglets-eligible forward Trevan Sanusi beating off bids from rival sides to secure the signature of the teenager.

In what has been a big coup for the Magpies, Newcastle United saw off competition from several  Premier League rivals to sign the England youth international of Nigerian descent from Birmingham City. Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur and were all interested in signing him up after he was assessed by their scouts.

 Italian transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, confirmed that Newcastle won competition to sign Sanusi as more than five clubs were involved in the race. Birmingham City tried to keep hold of the teenager by offering him a scholarship deal but they could not agree to terms with the Anglo-Nigerian forward.

Sanusi has been described as a versatile forward who can play as a right and left winger. He made his full debuts for Birmingham City's U18s and development squad while still a schoolboy, which is a testament to his incredible quality.

Sanusi only turned 16 in April and had been tipped to claim Jude Bellingham's record as Birmingham City's youngest player but ran out of games towards the end of the Championship season. Capped by England at U16 level, he has been a regular starter and scorer in Birmingham's U21 side which has led to scouts from Premier League clubs making regular checks on his progress.