Newcastle United scouting £17m Brazilian as potential cover for Lewis Hall after Premier League rival has bid rejected
It still remains to be seen how active Newcastle United will actually be in the January transfer window, but rumours will persist until the window closes at the end of the month.
Towards the back end of last year, it seemed imperative that the Magpies spent some money to bring in at least a couple of fresh faces this month, as too many stars are underperforming.
However, the club has moved to quell expectations, and off the back of two wins in a row, the urgency has subsided somewhat.
It's our view that thinking that we don't need any additions would be dangerous, however, and we should be looking to add some depth in a couple of positions, one of which is left-back.
Newcastle are keeping tabs on 19-year-old Brazilian full-back Souza
The rumour mill certainly seems to agree with a link coming from Brazilian outlet Somos Fanáticos , suggesting that Newcastle are tracking Santos full-back Souza.
According to the report, Tottenham Hotspur have already had a £9 million bid for the 19-year-old turned down by Santos, who are demanding a fee closer to £17 million.
Whether Newcastle would be willing to go that high for an unproven teenager is unlikely, but there seems to be plenty of room to negotiate.
Of course Chelsea are also monitoring Souza
Souza is noted for his pace and love for getting forward, which makes him the ideal backup for Lewis Hall if a deal can be done.
Chelsea are also said to be keen, obviously, but with a contract running to 2028, Santos are thought to be in no rush to sell one of their prize assets.
This one feels like another one that won't go beyond the rumour stage. At least this month, anyway.
