A big Newcastle United transfer claim has been made regarding Scottish left-back Aaron Hickey... 

What's the talk?

In a recent interview with Football FanCast, Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie confirmed that the full-back is a player that the club are aware of heading into the summer.

"Aaron Hickey is one that has been mentioned, that Bologna, young, 19-year-old, Scottish defender. He's been watched. Hickey is a player that has been watched."

Fans will be elated

Considering the sheer amount of potential Hickey is quite clearly in possession of, Magpies supporters will be elated by the interest their club is showing in the youngster.

Indeed, what Downie's claim demonstrates is that PIF are being proactive and looking to scout young, talented prospects with a view to bringing them to St. James' Park.

It shows that they want to keep an eye on players with potential instead of just focusing on seasoned professionals who bring experience and are proven at the top level.

However, while it is true that, at the age of just 19, the defender would be something of a signing for the future, the Scotland international has nevertheless proven he is more than capable of doing a job at senior level already in his short career.

Indeed, in Serie A this season, Hickey has averaged a SofaScore rating of 6.90 across 28 appearances. This shows that he has been performing to an impressive standard in the Italian top flight, suggesting that he has the potential to develop into a superb player in the future if he can continue to progress and hone his skills.

Newcastle fans will, therefore, be buzzing to learn that he is a gem the club are keeping a close eye on - as Hickey could well go on to become a key player within Eddie Howe's side for many a year to come.

AND in other news, Huge boost: Newcastle handed key injury lift that'll leave Eddie Howe ecstatic...