Newcastle United in contact with player’s entourage and club – Transfer on horizon for young talent

A couple of weeks ago, the Brazilian version of Goal first reported Newcastle United’s interest in Athletico Paranaense starlet Vitor Roque.

There it was said that the Magpies were one of the clubs who have made ‘enquiries’ about the signing, getting in touch directly with the Brazilian club.

It turns out Newcastle’s interest is now backed up by outlet Globo Esporte, who bring more information on that chase.

They claim the Magpies made contact with the player’s entourage, as they wanted to know about the striker’s ‘personal projects’.

But Newcastle aren’t the only club who did that. It’s said the likes of Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain have all been in touch with Vitor Roque’s entourage as well.

Athletico director Luis Felipe Scolari talked about the youngster at the weekend, and admitted that the club wil likely soon have to sell him, given the offers they’re expecting for his sale.

“Vitor will probably be sold. He’s 17-years-old and has a lot, a lot to learn on the field, but he has been forged, since he was 16, playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro and Libertadores,” said Scolari (via Globo Esporte).

“He’s a 17-year-old boy, with the mind and experience of a 24, 25 year old. He’s ready, but he has to develop. When they come up with enough money, I think they sell.”

The player is protected by a €100m release clause, and even though he obviously won’t cost that much, his potential raises the expectation about a big transfer.