Newcastle notes: The Magpies are looking to strengthen their recruitment department and improve scouting in Africa

Newcastle United are cranking up their scouting department with a key appointment in their bid to land the best talent in Africa.

Down the years, Newcastle have had some real stars from Africa, including Papiss Cisse, Obafemi Martins, Lomana LuaLua, Demba Ba, Christian Atsu and Cheick Tiote. But Newcastle are looking to find untapped talent as they look to grow their scouting capabilities.

A new role of Scouting Analyst (Africa) has already had a number of applicants as sporting director Ross Wilson looks to enhance the club's recruitment department.

The advert for the exciting new role reads: "You'll scout and analyse prospective players across multiple levels of African football, primarily through video. Research African football markets, competitions, academies and player pathways. Attend occasional live matches and travel domestically or internationally when required."

The hire comes just a week after Newcastle revealed they were looking for a goalkeeping scout as they look to rebuild their stopper department. In his 12 months in charge as sporting director, Wilson has restructured the scouting department, while two high-profile exits have also unfolded in the head of recruitment, Steve Nickson, who went to Wrexham, and Andy Howe, who opted to go after the departure of his uncle, Eddie Howe.

Make sure you never miss the latest Newcastle United news and opinion by making Chronicle Live one of your Google preferred sources.

Newcastle handed unpopular kick off time

The latest round of TV alterations resulted in three Newcastle fixtures getting rescheduled this week although one means an unpopular kick off time for both United and Man United's travelling fans.

Indeed, the December 2 clash at St James' Park has now been shifted to an 8.15pm kick off to accomodate Sky Sports coverage and that will result in a late finish for fans. By the time the encounter is done it will be close to 10pm and a late night for younger fans and those travelling back to the North-West is now on the cards.

A Newcastle statement read: "Three of Newcastle United's Premier League fixtures in December have been rescheduled after being selected for live television coverage.

"The Magpies' visit of Manchester United will remain on Wednesday, 2nd December but the game will now kick-off at 8:15pm (GMT) instead of 8pm and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

"Newcastle were due to host Sunderland on Saturday, 5th December but the 160th Tyne-Wear derby will now take place on Sunday, 6th December, with kick-off at St. James' Park set for 2pm (GMT).

"United's final away game of 2026, away at Brentford, will still take place on Saturday, 19th December but the clash at the Gtech Community Stadium will now kick-off at 12:30pm (GMT) instead of 3pm. The game will be broadcast live on TNT Sports."

Exciting youngster signs professional deal

Alfie Seldon has penned his first professional deal after celebrating his 17th birthday as a Newcastle United prospect for the future.

The Houghton-le-Spring-born left winger has progressed from the Under-18s and into the club's Under-21 set-up.

Seldon told Newcastle United.com. "When you're young, working your way through the Academy to sign that first professional contract is what you're aiming to do. "I've got lots of strong relationships with the Academy coaches as well as my teammates. I also feel like you get a lot of opportunities.

"I've been able to play with the Under-18s when I was 16 years old, playing in the UEFA Youth League with the Under-19s last season and recently playing with the Under-21s. "My performances have been good and I think I've deserved it. I'm showing everyone the right side of me. I've gained a lot of confidence in the last 18 months which has helped me to get where I am. I back myself a lot more compared to what I did when I was younger."

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest NUFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.

And, finally, if you would rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Everything is Black and White podcast. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.