The midfielder impressed in the club’s warm-up games – and won praise from Eddie Howe. United’s head coach last week suggested that Anderson would get a place in his squad for the coming season.
“No decision will be made on his future until towards the end of the transfer window, probably the last few days,” said Howe. “At the moment, it certainly looks like he’s going to stay with us, because of how he’s performing.”
Anderson – who won Newcastle’s penalty in Friday night’s 1-0 win over Atalanta – hopes to be involved in Saturday’s season-opener against Nottingham Forest.
“That would mean everything to be honest,” said the 19-year-old, who broke into the first-team squad the season before last when Steve Bruce was head coach.
“I’m a local lad, and I’ve supported the club since I was a little kid. So, for me and my family, that would mean the world.”
Anderson was dubbed the “Geordie Maradona” by fans of loan club Bristol Rovers, managed by former United midfielder Joey Barton, in the second half of last season. The Scotland Under-21 international scored the goal which won the League Two club promotion.
“I really enjoyed working under Joey Barton,” said Anderson. “He helped me a lot, and gave me that stepping stone to go and show my ability. I’ve kept in touch with him, there’s been a few bits and bobs, but my main focus is here.”
Anderson has played a full part in Newcastle’s pre-season programme.
“I think it’s been really good for me, just trying to fit into the team, work on the way they play – and try and impress,” said Anderson. “I just want to try to carry on the momentum I had.”
Anderson, wanted on loan by a number of clubs, hopes to stay at St James’s Park this season.
“I want to be here,” Anderson told the Gazette in Austria last month. “I want to force my way into the team, but, I guess, that’s the club’s decision.
“I’ve just got to work as hard as I can on the pitch, and see what happens.”
Check out the latest Premier League transfer speculation below...
Anderson – who won Newcastle’s penalty in Friday night’s 1-0 win over Atalanta – hopes to be involved in Saturday’s season-opener against Nottingham Forest.
5. Maddison ‘wants’ North London move
Leicester City midfielder James Maddison ‘wants to join’ Tottenham or Arsenal rather than Newcastle United. (Dean Jones)
6. Leeds have ‘no plans’ for Greenwood exit
Leeds United have no plans to loan out Sam Greenwood this summer after he signed a new contract. (Football Insider)
7. Gunners expected to move for Tielemans
Leicester City expect Arsenal to move for Youri Tielemans but are yet to receive any offers for the Belgium midfielder. (The Guardian)
8. Hammers hold Cornet talks
West Ham have held initial talks with Burnley over the signing of Newcastle United target Maxwel Cornet. The Hammers are understood to favour a loan, with Everton are also in discussions. (Dharmesh Seth)