Newcastle United transfers: The Magpies are reportedly closing in on a 16-year-old talent after a scouting move made by Ross Wilson.
Newcastle United are understood to be closing in on a deal to sign 16-year-old winger Johan Martinez from Independiente del Valle of Ecuador.
Various reports have claimed Newcastle are closing in on a deal to sign the teenager, who would not officially join the club until after he turns 18 - much like the signing of Vakhtang Salia from Dinamo Tbilisi in the summer.
It comes after Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson expanded Newcastle’s scouting network in South America with the appointment of Thomas Federspiel in December as the club’s new global talent scout in Brazil, Colombia and Ecuador.
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Martinez hails from one of Ecuador’s top academies in Independiente del Valle, famous for producing several players who have gone on to have success in Europe, most notably Moises Caicedo. Caicedo joined Brighton & Hove Albion from Independiente for just £4million in 2021 before being sold to Chelsea two-and-a-half years later for over £100million.
Newcastle United missed out on Brazilian prospect in January
Newcastle are exploring the South American market intently, having turned down the opportunity to sign Rayan Vitor in January. Brazilian sources claimed Newcastle were close to agreeing a deal with Vasco de Gama for the 19-year-old forward.
Magpies head coach Eddie Howe played down the prospect of a move back in January as the club opted not to dip into their transfer kitty. It allowed Premier League side Bournemouth to swoop in and agree a £30million deal.
Rayan has since scored twice in seven Premier League appearances for the Cherries.
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