Newcastle will have a big budget this summer. Will this allow them to swoop for Leeds midfielder who they showed interest in earlier this season?
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez celebrates winning the league with the trophy
Newcastle United could have as much as £100 million to spend this summer upon their return to the Premier League, reports the Chronicle.
This gives manager Rafa Benitez free reign to buy the players he wants, and snap up long term targets who may otherwise have been difficult to buy.
One of these could be Leeds United’s crown jewel, midfield star Ronaldo Vieira.
Derby’s Chris Baird in action with Leeds’ Ronaldo Vieira
The Chronicle reported late last year that Newcastle are interested in the teenager and had been scouting him. It also claimed the club aimed to continue watching him throughout the season.
Vieira has just completed his first full season in English football, breaking into Leeds United’s first team to replace Lewis Cook.
Leeds would be loathe to lose him, but Newcastle’s interest coupled with their spending power is an ominous sign.
So should Leeds be worried?
Leeds United’s Ronaldo Vieira celebrates
Leeds should not be complacent that they can keep Vieira, although they will be significantly boosted if Garry Monk stays on as head coach.
New owner Andrea Radrizzani is not short of funds himself and does not need to cash in on such a bright talent.
Vieira signed a new contract earlier this season and Leeds are under no pressure to sell, while he remains grateful to the club who gave him his opportunity in England.
Newcastle could also turn their attentions to more ambitious targets. While Vieira is very much one for the future, they may decide that a priority is a player who is proven in the Premier League, and The Mail report they are targeting Manchester City’s former Porto midfielder Fernando.
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