Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Gremio’s Brazilian international attacker Luan.
Luan could be finally heading to Europe.
Arguably the most talented player currently plying his trade in Brazil, the 2017 South American Player of the Year is officially the best on the continent. So it would be quite the coup if Newcastle United were able to lure Luan to St James’ Park.
And while Luan is far from a household name on Tyneside, it says a lot about his talent that none other than Ronaldinho tipped him for Barcelona as recently as last summer.
“Luan is very good. He’s creative, he’s different, he’s talented and he thinks differently to other players,” the 2005 Ballon D’Or winner said in quotes reported by Sambafoot.
“He’ll come to Europe soon. He is the perfect player for Barcelona.”
It is understood that Rafa Benitez’s former club Liverpool are also keen admirers of Luan. The 2016 Olympic Gold Medal winner scored eight times in 12 games to inspire Gremio to the Copa Libertadores last year and could replace compatriot Philippe Coutinho at Anfield.
But it is not every day Ronaldinho publically states that a player is good enough to play for Barcelona. And it is not every day that Newcastle United are handed a chance to sign that very player.
Luan, if he adapts to life in Northern England, could be a sensational addition to a rather average Newcastle squad. The question is, will they pay the £17.5 million required?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
