‘Confirmed’ - Newcastle United £13m transfer target seals Premier League move

Chelsea have completed the signing of young Brazilian forward Angelo Gabriel from Santos FC.

Gabriel, who turned 18 in December, had been tracked by Newcastle United’s head of recruitment Steve Nickson over the last 12 months. However, the Magpies weren’t the only club with Chelsea winning the race for Gabriel.

A Chelsea club statement read: “Born in Brasilia, the 18-year-old arrives at Stamford Bridge with a wealth of senior football under his belt; he made 129 first-team appearances for Santos across all competitions.

“A left-footed winger who was regularly utilised off the right side of Santos’ frontline, Angelo became the youngest player in the history of the Brazil national championship when he made his debut against Fluminense in the Maracanã, aged just 15 years and 308 days.

“In April 2021, the Brazil Under-20 international scored his first senior goal, a close-range finish away to Lorenzo in the Copa Libertadores. In doing so he became the youngest goalscorer in that historic competition. He scored four more times for Santos and claimed ten assists.

“Welcome to Chelsea, Angelo!”

As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Gabriel has signed a long-term contract after Chelsea agreed a £13million fee with Santos. He is expected to link up with the Blues for their pre-season trip to the USA and could face Newcastle as the two clubs compete in the Premier League Summer Series.

United will continue to keep a close eye on the South American market. It was revealed last month former Sporting Gijon assistant manager Borja de Marias had been appointed as the club’s head scout on the continent.