Paul Mitchell delighted as he secures 'exciting' Newcastle United summer signing ahead of exit
Outgoing sporting director Paul Mitchell has helped secure Newcastle United’s first summer signing.
Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Antonio Cordero on a free transfer from Malaga.
The 18-year-old was approached by the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Porto but was convinced to join Newcastle during a visit to Tyneside earlier this year.
His contract expires on June 30, meaning he will officially join the Magpies on July 1. The transfer is subject to completion of the registration process with the Premier League and the Football Association, as well as obtaining a UK visa.
Newcastle have also confirmed plans to loan out Cordero, who is understood to have agreed a five-year contract, next season, with Dutch giants Ajax reportedly leading the chase.
Antonio Cordero on joining Newcastle United
“It's truly an honour to be here, truly a pleasure. I am a person who likes to aspire high. Why not come to one of the best places in the world to do it,” Cordero said.
“It's a big step, and that's one of the reasons I'm here. I'm happy to do it and have a great desire to get going already.”
Cordero announced his exit from Malaga earlier this year. On Instagram, he wrote: “Here comes the day I never wanted to come! The time has come to say goodbye to all of you who have become part of my family since day one. Unforgettable memories that I will always carry in my heart!
“We have tried but due to greater forces it could not be and I am here to thank all those who made possible this dream, to play and enjoy for this great club! Also a special thank you to an amazing fan who always supported us through thick and thin! I hope one day we will meet again! I love you MALAGA ❤️!”
Cordero scored the goal that secured Malaga’s promotion back to Spain’s second-tier in 2023-24. Last season, Cordero netted six times and provided seven assists in 39 appearances as Malaga fended off the threat of relegation.
But after making 60 appearances for the club in total, it appears his time has ended on a somewhat sour note. Malaga announced on Monday afternoon that Cordero would be leaving, sparking a largely negative reaction among the La Rosaleda faithful.
Paul Mitchell comments on Antonio Cordero signing
Paul Mitchell will leave his role as Newcastle sporting director at the end of this month but has commented on the signing of Cordero having played a key role in the move.
While Mitchell is yet to make a major first-team signing in his 11 months at Newcastle, he has recruited young talent like Baran Yilidz from Turkish club Genclerbirligi and Vakhtang Sala from Georgian outfit Dinamo Tbilisi.
Mitchell said: “Antonio is an exciting talent. We’re delighted to bring him to Newcastle United amidst interest in Spain and across Europe.
“He has lots of potential, and the next phase of his development will be for the club to select a loan move that will challenge him and build on his experiences.”