‘There is an offer’ from Newcastle United – PL side ‘already moved’ ahead of other clubs in signing race

Over the past few days, reports from South America have stated Newcastle United are showing interest in Boca Juniors’ Alan Varela.

Two days ago, Marca explained Boca Juniors have received information the Magpies could make an offer for the midfielder.

Ajax, Barcelona and Benfica are also in the mix to sign the 21-year-old. The latter have identified Varela as a target to replace Enzo Fernández. However, Newcastle United, are ahead of these clubs in the transfer chase.

That’s according to TuttoMercatoWeb, and their title states ‘there is an offer’ from Eddie Howe’s side. Within the report, it’s claimed the Magpies have ‘already moved’ by putting an offer of €18m on the table to sign the Argentine.

MDZ Online reported on Thursday that if Newcastle were to make a bid, it will be almost impossible for the South American club to turn it down. Even if the offer were to arrive, Boca Juniors believe Varela will stay [on loan] at the club for at least six months.

They also relayed a claim from journalist Ignacio Bezruk that Varela will change his shirt number from 33 to 5. The latter number became available following Carlos Zambrano’s exit from the club.

This hints Varela won’t be leaving Boca in January and even if Newcastle’s reported €18m offer is accepted, he is likely to stay in Argentina on loan until June.