Alan Varela is a name on the lips of Newcastle United fans after the Magpies supposedly sent a £15m bid to Boca Juniors for his services.
That was according to D Sports Radio in Argentina. The South American news outlet believe the Boca Juniors No.33 has a release clause worth £18m – therefore, Newcastle are not far away from triggering that contractual option.
So, who is Alan Varela? And why is Eddie Howe keen to sign him? Let’s take a look…
Who is Alan Varela?
Well, Varela is being described as one of the biggest midfield prospects in South America, after playing a crucial role in Boca Juniors winning the Primera División.
The 21-year-old made 42 appearances for the Argentinian giants across all competitions.
In terms of playing style, Varela has been likened to Barcelona and Spain icon Sergio Busquets by Spanish news outlet AS – they also mention that Xavi wants the playmaker at the Camp Nou.
However, it is Newcastle who have made the first move.
The Magpies are seemingly taking a firm interest in the South American market, having also identified Andrey Santos and Maximo Perrone as targets – sadly for Howe, they are close to joining Chelsea and Manchester City respectively.
Varela is also an Argentina Under-20 international, and if he continues his rapid development, he could soon make his debut for the World champions under Lionel Scaloni.
Dan Ashworth – Director of Football at Newcastle – tapped into the South American market to great effect in his previous role with Brighton, finding gems such as Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo.
Therefore, Newcastle fans have every reason to get excited about Varela, and what he could provide in Howe’s midfield alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
Alan Varela profile
Full name: Alan Gonzalo Varela
Age: 21
Height: 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in)
Date of birth: 4th July 2001
Nationality: Argentina
Place of birth: Isidro Casanova, Argentina
Club: Boca Juniors
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Salary: £2,500-a-week
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
