Newcastle United are reportedly leading the race for Gimnàstic forward José Naranjo. The 21-year-old has been followed by British and Spanish sides, but his likely destination as it stands is the North East club.
According to Cadena Cope’s show El Larguero, Newcastle are prepared to pay Naranjo’s €3m release clause to fight off the attenton of other clubs.
Aston Villa are also interested in the Spanird, but the two Championship sides will also face competition from Celta Vigo and Real Betis.
The youngster can play both as a striker or as a winger, and Newcastle United boss Rafa Benítez has instructed the club to land the player.
Cadena Cope describe Naranjo as the big sensation of Liga Adelante, after clubs started showing an interest during the Spanish side’s promotion last season.
Naranjo finished the last season with 16 goals and 5 assists in 38 games for Gimnàstic. His contract with the Second Division side runs until 2018.
