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Football

23rd Aug 2016

Rafa Benitez is about to sign another Irish international for Newcastle United

A great move for Alan Judge...

Robert Redmond

This could be a great move for the Irish midfielder.

Newcastle United are on the verge of signing Alan Judge from Brentford, with the Irish midfielder set to become Rafa Benitez’s ninth summer signing. The midfielder will also become the second Republic of Ireland international, after Ciaran Clark, to make the move to St James Park during the current window.

Judge is still recuperating from a double leg-break, suffered in April as a result of sickening challenge from Ipswich Town’s Luke Hyam.

The 27-year-old had been, until that point, arguably the best player in the Championship, registering 14 goals and 14 assists, and looked set to make Martin O’Neill’s squad for Euro 2016.

Republic of Ireland v Switzerland - International Friendly

Judge is still at least two months away from first-team action. However, according to The Irish Times, the Dubliner has agreed personal terms with Newcastle, who are seeking to further strengthen their squad for their promotion push.

Judge’s contract with Brentford, where he has played since 2013, expired next June and the club will receive a fee, currently undisclosed, for the player.

On the latest GAA Hour we look back at Mayo-Tipperary and chat to Andy Moran about his incredible, never-ending career. Listen below or subscribe here on iTunes.

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