Newcastle United midfielder set to seal loan exit

Newcastle United attacking midfielder Rodrigo Vilca is set to join Universitario on loan, reports in Peru claim.

The 22-year-old moved to the North East of England in October 2022 after completing a £250,000 transfer from Deportivo Municipal.

Vilca arrived in United’s youth set up with plenty of promise, however is yet to live up to that on Tyneside and a return home is on the cards.

The South American spent the first half of this season on loan at League One side Doncaster Rovers but struggled to make a lasting impression.

He made 13 appearances for Rovers and scored two goals before suffering a hamstring injury in November. He returned to Newcastle a month later.

In a message on Instagram, Vilca wrote: “Thank you for all the support you have shown me since the day I arrived. I have the best memories.

“I wish you the best for the rest of the season.”

Vilca linked up with Elliott Dickman’s under-23s following his return but has missed their last two games against Norwich City and Fulham.

Peru newspaper RPP Noticias reports Vilca will join Universitario on loan for the campaign. The Peru football season started in February and runs until late October.

However, a deal for Vilca must be finalised by 5am Wednesday (GMT) with the Peru transfer window shutting at 12pm (PST).

Vilca is under contract at Newcastle until June 2024.