Reports suggesting Premier League outfit Newcastle United have made a £30 million bid for Andrey Santos are wide of the mark, Vasco da Gama’s sporting director Paulo Bracks tells Somos Fanaticos.
Do not make the mistake in assuming that, just because Newcastle prioritised tried-and-trusted Premier League operators during their first transfer window under Saudi Arabian ownership, the Magpies will continue to do their shopping at Burnley and Brighton.
The signings of Matt Targett, Dan Burn, Chris Wood and co were, if anything, borne out of necessity. Relegation, at the time, was very real possibility. And Newcastle needed experienced campaigners capable of slotting straight into the team, without the need for a lengthy period of adaptation.
Players like Andrey Santos are far more reflective of the transfer policy that underpins this new-look Newcastle; expensive yet highly-talented young players, brimming with potential and re-sale value.
The Tynesiders have already attempted big-money swoops for the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko and Braga’s Roger Fernandes. The so-called ‘Brazilian Busquets’ – 18-year-old Andrey Santos – is the latest much-coveted teenager on Newcastle’s radar.
But, contrary to recent reports, a bid is yet to arrive from St James’ Park.
Newcastle United linked with Vasco da Gama starlet Andrey Santos
“I can say that there is no offer from Newcastle for Andrey,” explains Bracks, sporting director of Serie B outfit Vasco da Gama.
“He didn’t receive an offer. Vasco didn’t receive an offer. The player has renewed his contract. The negotiation of players will happen, yes. But not out of necessity, because of choice.”
Rio-born Santos, a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder, is also on the radar of clubs such as Barcelona and Everton.
“Physically, he is a monster,” says Lyon legend and former Brazil international Juninho. “Without the ball, his participation in the game is total. I want to see his GPS, because he doesn’t stop! And technically, he’s way above the others.
“He’s not going to be better than me, he’s going to be much better than me. He is a much more complete player. At 18, I didn’t play half as much as he does. I’m not ashamed to say that.”
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