Newcastle United are close to finalising a deal to sign 18-year-old Central Coast Mariners forward Garang Kuol, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

The Lowdown: Kuol’s rapid rise

Since making his senior debut for the Australian outfit earlier this year, the attacker has scored four goals in ten appearances for the club. Consequently, just two weeks ago, the teenager was called up to the Socceroos national team.

Kuol made his international debut on Sunday, coming on for 17 minutes as Australia ran out 2-0 winners over New Zealand.

The Latest: Newcastle close to Kuol deal

Since bursting onto the scene this year, a number of European clubs have become interested in securing the 18-year-old’s signature.

Sheth has now shared an update on the recent speculation, revealing that the Magpies are closing in on the teenager's services.

Taking to Twitter on Tuesday morning, the Sky Sports reporter claimed: “Newcastle United close to finalising deal for Central Coast Mariners forward Garang Kuol. 18 year-old made Australia debut last week. He would join in January. Borussia Dortmund & Celtic also showed interest. Kuol pushing to be included in World Cup squad. #GarangKuol #NUFC”

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The Verdict: Huge potential

Whilst Kuol does not qualify for an English work permit just yet, a call-up to the Australian national team and a potential spot on the Socceroos' World Cup squad would certainly help in this quest.

However, it is easy to see why Newcastle are trying to get a deal done now for the young prodigy, instead of waiting to do so at a later stage in case his profile skyrockets even further and a host of other clubs are alerted.

Mariners team-mate Jason Cummings has showered praise on the youngster, having been extremely impressed since he joined up with the senior squad.

As per the Socceroos' official website, he claimed of Kuol: “We all saw him at the All Stars (game against FC Barcelona) and he came on and he was unbelievable that night as well. Last season he was a big player for us, coming off the bench and scoring some big goals. He’s a big game player.”

Considering the level of competition involved in the battle for his signature, this would appear to be an incredible coup for the Magpies if they can finalise the proposed deal for the Australian starlet.