Newcastle winger Alfie Seldon signs first professional contract

The left-sided forward has been part of Newcastle United’s academy since the age of seven and has marked his latest milestone after an encouraging run of performances across several youth levels.

Seldon has scored five goals in his first six Under-18 Premier League appearances this season. He has also stepped up to Under-21 football, making his debut in September’s EFL Trophy victory over York City before scoring his first goal for the second-string against Solihull Moors in the National League Cup.

“I’m delighted to sign it,” Seldon told Newcastle’s official website. “When you’re young, working your way through the Academy to sign that first professional contract is what you’re aiming to do.”

The teenager said the relationships he has built with coaches and teammates have helped him progress, while opportunities to play above his age group have given him confidence.

“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.”

Seldon believes his performances have earned the contract and says he has become more confident over the past 18 months. His progress has followed a difficult period last season, when a back injury kept him out for two months.

He scored nine league goals at Under-18 level during the previous campaign despite the interruption, and was pleased to maintain his form after returning.

“I had a good end to last season after being injured,” he said. “I finished the season strong and it’s been really positive to carry on that form into this season, showing it wasn’t a one-off and that I can keep those levels at a high standard.”

The forward added that being sidelined had been difficult, but he used the time away from matches to build strength and focus on returning. Once fit again, he was able to continue where he had left off.

His progress has included some notable milestones. Seldon made his Under-18 debut at 15 and became Newcastle’s youngest outfield player to feature in the UEFA Youth League when he appeared shortly after turning 16. His first Under-21 goal against Solihull Moors added another achievement, making him the club’s youngest scorer in the National League Cup.

The winger now hopes to take the next steps towards senior football. He pointed to the academy players named on Newcastle’s first-team bench as evidence that opportunities are available to those who perform well.

“Everyone wants to make their professional debut for the first-team, whether that’s in the Premier League or cup competitions, but one aim of mine this season is getting my first call-up with England,” he said.

Seldon’s first professional deal rewards his progress, but his ambitions extend beyond the contract. He wants to keep improving, earn international recognition and eventually make his senior debut for Newcastle.