Newcastle United hold a strong interest in Vasco da Gama youngster Andrey Santos, but have been set a big price by the Brazilian club.
This is according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who has been discussing the midfielder’s future on his YouTube channel ahead of the January transfer window.
Santos is currently playing in the second tier of Brazilian football with Vasco da Gama and has netted seven goals in his 31 league appearances (via Transfermarkt).
Romano claims Newcastle have sent their scouts to monitor the midfielder for a while now, but the Serie B side are looking for a fee in the region of €30m (£26m) for their young prospect.
It has been suggested Barcelona have also been linked with a potential move for the 18-year-old, but Romano has confirmed Newcastle’s interest, saying: “He’s super, super young, but Newcastle have sent their people in Brazil to follow and scout this guy for a long time. They really like him.
“They already had some conversations with Vasco da Gama. At the moment, there is no agreement because Vasco da Gama, from what I’m told, are asking for more than €30m. Yes, more than €30m for this boy born in 2004.
“So he’s very good. He’s a very talented player, Andrey Santos. And this is why it’s not an easy negotiation, but Newcastle are there.”
TIF Thoughts on Romano’s comments…
There’s definitely a clear vision in place on Tyneside from PIF in planning for the club’s long-term success with the addition of young prospects.
Should NUFC be spending £26m+ on an 18-year-old?
Yes
No
Newcastle have added much-needed quality to their side in the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak, however, the Magpies are also eyeing signings for further down the line.
18-year-old Garang Kuol was signed last month and it seems as if PIF are now eyeing more additions for their long-term vision at St James’ Park with Santos.