Carlisle United defender Jarrad Branthwaite is attracting Premier League interest.

The Sun on Sunday says Newcastle are one of three clubs keen to sign 17-year-old Carlisle defender Branthwaite.

Branthwaite has broken into the Cumbrian's first team this season and has made eight appearances so far this term.

As a result, Newcastle and Rangers are keeping a close eye on his progress, but Southampton are leading the race for his signature.

Celtic and Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest in recent weeks.