Newcastle United ‘open negotiations’ over potential January transfer signing

Newcastle United have reportedly targeted a number of Brazilian youngster in recent months - and a new name has come to the fore over the last 24 hours.

The Magpies are said to have a keen eye on some of the most promising talent in South America and they have been linked with moves for the likes of Santos forward Angelo Gabriel, Palmieras star Endrick and Vasco da Gama prospect Andrey Santos over the last six months - although their bid for the latter looks set for an unsuccessful outcome as the midfielder has moved close to agreeing a deal with Chelsea.

However, United have already moved on to a different target with Brazilian outlet Globo reporting negotiations for Flamengo’s attacking midfielder Matheus Franca have been ‘opened’ in recent days. The 18-year-old only made his senior debut last December as he came off the bench in a 1-0 league defeat against Santos but he has gone on to impress after being handed several starts over the last three months.

Following a start in last month’s 2-2 draw at Juventude, Franca’s record stands at six goals in his first 25 first-team appearances and that has led to being nominated as Brazil’s best Under-20 player at next month’s Samba Awards. The report in Globo also suggests the youngster is seen as ‘the main jewel’ at Flamengo and is mentioned in the same breath as Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, who left Flamengo to join the La Liga giants in 2018.

Crystal Palace and Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen have also been considering an offer for Franca - but it is Newcastle that have made the first firm move by opening negotiations with his club.