Weekend claims of Newcastle United interest in Gabriel Pires came as no surprise, given the Brazilian had already spoken about January interest from St James’ Park.
Claims the interest is back have spread to Spain, where it could present an opportunity for Leganes. Gabriel has a buyout clause of around £6m, but Diario Gol say Newcastle have made a ‘significant offer’ for him. It would be assumed that’s an offer below the £6m, but still one considered good for Leganes.
Diario Gol say Rafael Benitez has given his ‘approval’ to the signing, and the transfer could fund several Leganes purchases. It’s believed a transfer is likely.
That may all be speculation based on the claims of interest, but what could prove an interesting factor in a possible transfer is Leganes appointment of a ‘director general’. Martin Ortega, who used to play for the club, has worked for Leganes from a distance, and AS explain it was he who masterminded the signing of Gabriel.
Should Newcastle sign the player, it was almost certainly be Ortega masterminding his exit, and he’ll want to make an impressive sale now he’s in such an important role.
