Newcastle United transfers: Johan Martinez has been strongly linked with a move to Tyneside this week.
Newcastle United are reportedly close to striking a deal to sign 16-year-old forward Johan Martinez from Independiente del Valle.
While the transfer is not thought to be imminent, various reports have claimed Newcastle in advanced talks to agree a deal that will see the teenager join the club once he turns 18.
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.
Martinez hails from one of Ecuador’s top academies at Independiente del Valle, which has been closely monitored by scouts of several European clubs in recent years. Independiente sold Moises Caicedo to Brighton & Hove Albion for £4million in 2021 before the Premier League side made over a £100million profit by selling him to Chelsea two-and-a-half years later.
Signing such youngsters could be the key to addressing any PSR problems for Newcastle.
NUFC snubbed Brazilian transfer in January
Newcastle are exploring the South American market intently, having turned down the opportunity to sign Rayan Vitor from Vasco de Gama in January.
Magpies head coach Eddie Howe played down the prospect of a move for the 19-year-old 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 transfer.
Rayan has since scored twice in seven Premier League appearances for the Cherries.
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