Newcastle United want Alan Varela and have allegedly launched a bid to sign the Boca Juniors midfielder during this month’s transfer window.
That’s according to D Sports Radio in Argentina and their reporter Fafi Perez.
It’s stated that Newcastle have offered around $18million (£15million) to sign Varela from Boca Juniors this month.
Varela has a €20million (£17.5million) release clause in his contract, so Newcastle aren’t exactly far away from that figure.
Still, it’s now over to Boca Juniors to decide whether they want to accept and cash in on their impressive young midfielder.
Newcastle continue to look to South America for talent even after a couple of disappointments.
The Magpies wanted to sign Andrey Santos from Vasco da Gama but were pipped to his signature by Chelsea.
Newcastle have also eyed Velez Sarsfield talent Maximo Perrone but he is on the verge of signing for Manchester City instead.
Maybe it will be third time lucky for Newcastle now as they chase a deal to sign Varela this month.
Who is Newcastle United target Alan Varela?
Varela, 21, was born in Isidro Casanova on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, about a 30-minute drive to Boca’s famous La Bombonera stadium.
Varela joined Boca back in 2012 and has now risen up through the ranks to become a first-team star.
The midfielder has racked up 76 appearances for Boca whilst bagging one goal and three assists.
Primarily deployed as holding midfielder, Varela has been branded ‘the new Sergio Busquets’ with Barcelona interested in signing him.
Barca see Varela as a potential heir to Busquets in their midfield but Newcastle are now making their move.
This feels like a move that has Dan Ashworth’s influence all over it having utilised the South American markets brilliantly with Brighton and Hove Albion.
If Varela can have the impact of a Moises Caicedo or an Alexis Mac Allister, Newcastle could have a gem on their hands.
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