Newcastle United & Liverpool Both Want £25.4M Rated South American Star Just Months After He Moved Teams
Newcastle United are monitoring Gremio centre-back Wallace, according to reports.
FussballEuropa.com claim that the Magpies, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid are “keeping a close eye” on the 21-year-old’s performances.
Wallace only signed from second division outfit Clube de Regatas Brasil in July for around €500,000, but he has managed to attract the attention of visiting scouts already.
The 21-year-old has made 13 appearances in total, scoring on his league debut against Sao Paulo in early August. He has also helped Gremio reach the semi-final of the Brazilian Cup.
Wallace’s price tag has already skyrocketed
It is believed that Gremio will demand around €15m (£12.7m) for their 50% share of the player, which places his overall value at €30m (£25.4m).
Considering how few matches Wallace has played at the top level in Brazil, you would think that Magpies sporting director Ross Wilson would want more evidence before splashing the cash on a very inexperienced player. For now, the club are simply watching his progress with interest.
They may still have to move early to secure his signature, though. It is claimed that Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti could well call him up if he continues to impress, and if he does make his international debut, more and more teams will be looking to snap him up.
Newcastle United need younger centre-backs
The Magpies’ pursuit of Wallace does make a lot of sense. The club have changed their transfer policy to recruit younger prospects, and the Brazilian fits into that category.
Furthermore, the centre of defence is an area that will have to be reinforced sooner rather than later. Fabian Schar turns 35 in December and is out of contract at the end of the campaign, while Dan Burn will be the same age in May.