Newcastle United could make offer as quickly as January – Magpies seen as firm in transfer race

Newcastle United are seen as serious competition for Estudiantes youngster Benjamín Rollheiser and could make a move for him in January.

That’s according to Record, who say Newcastle are providing ‘serious competition’ to Benfica for the winger’s signature.

The newspaper reports that Benfica have already contacted the Argentine club to find out the conditions for signing the youngster and it is certain that a transfer will be completed next season.

Benfica are eyeing a move as Angel Di Maria is tempted to return to Rosario Central and they are already researching the market to find a potential replacements.

Businessman Eugenio López, who was involved in the deal to sign Enzo Fernández, met with the management at Estudiantes to talk about the winger but they’re refusing to talk as they’re focused on the Argentine Cup final.

Benfica want to get ahead of the game, though, as Newcastle are already in the mix. Record report that the winger is very much in their plans, and they are considering a move for him in the January transfer window.

The Magpies are expected to strengthen their squad at the earliest opportunity as injuries have limited Eddie Howe’s options, particularly on the wings, where Harvey Barnes is a long-term absentee.

Rollheiser could be an ideal replacement for him after scoring 12 goals and registering eight assists in 56 games this year and it seems the Magpies are very much in the mix, at least as far as Benfica and the press in Portugal are concerned.