Manchester United starlet Shea Lacey has been forced to deny he is signing for Newcastle after a 'fake DM' emerged on social media.
The 16-year-old currently represents United's U18 side, and has gone viral on numerous occasions over the past 18 months for a series of stunning goals.
He scored a goal of the season contender against Wolves last January, hitting a swerving left-footed shot directly into the top corner from 25 yards out.
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According to The Athletic, United boss Erik ten Hag held a private chat with Lacey and other academy stars, informing them on what it would take to become a 'fully-fledged first team player' at the club.
Expectations are high for the Liverpool-born winger, who can also play in attacking midfield, meaning it would not come as a huge surprise to see other clubs interested in signing him.
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Some fans thought Newcastle were one of those clubs - but all was not what it seemed.
A Twitter account claimed that the Magpies had approached Lacey with an offer to sign for them, and that the 16-year-old wanted to leave United.
But another account, Academy Scoop, then shared details of an Instagram conversation that they had with Lacey.
After being informed of the post, the United youngster is shown to have replied: "Seen it mate, weird aren't they."
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The original post also claimed that they themselves had a direct message conversation with Lacey - although the account shown on the photo had 40,000 fewer followers than Lacey's actual account.
In the near future, the winger will be looking to further establish himself as a key player for United's youth sides, having played in the UEFA Youth League on three occasions for the U19s this term.
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Ten Hag has shown a willingness to promote youngsters who are capable of playing first team football, with the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho becoming key first team players for the Dutchman.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Manchester United, Newcastle United, Erik Ten Hag, Transfers
