Report: Celtic and Rangers want Newcastle teenager, Leeds linked in summer

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The Chronicle claim that both Celtic and Rangers are considering a pre-contract deal for Newcastle teenager Joe White, in the January window.

White, 19, has been a regular member of the Under-23 side at Newcastle for a couple of seasons – but is yet to break into the senior side on Tyneside.

That lack of pathway might convince White to look for pastures new. That, combined with his current contract situation which is yet to be resolved.

White is out of contract at the end of the season. From January 1, he will be allowed to talk to non-English sides on a pre-contract arrangement.

That would see either Celtic or Rangers be able to sign White on a pre-contract, and move in the summer. A tiny compensation fee, in return.

Celtic and Rangers eye White: Newcastle cannot let him go

It is a tactic, almost a loophole, Celtic and Rangers have taken advantage of in recent years. Being a non-English club, they can get players on the cheap.

Despite only being up the road from St. James’ Park, Celtic and Rangers can get White for a compensation fee – normally around £400,000.

But if another Premier League side were to sign White, it would have to be a much larger figure. Liverpool signed Harvey Elliot for £4.3million.

A regular star for the 23’s, White was on the bench for the 4-1 loss to Manchester United. The Toon must keep him, but a move looks likely.