Newcastle United are looking at Brazilian wonderkid Rayan as they attempt to sign more players from overseas.
The Magpies have been making more and more signings from untapped markets in recent years, with South Korean sensation Park Seung-soo joining Newcastle United this summer. There was also the arrival of Georgian wonderkid Vakhtang Salia.
Now the Newcastle United recruitment team are looking towards South America, as they consider handing Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton another Brazilian teammate.
Newcastle United eye Rayan
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has exclusively spoken to Geordie Boot Boys, stating that Newcastle United are one of multiple Premier League clubs who are taking a look at Vasco da Gama attacker Rayan.
The 19-year-old winger has scored 16 goals in 46 games for the Brazilian side this season, including four goals in his last three league games.
Rayan’s form is attracting a lot of attention, particularly from Newcastle United.
“He has had a very good breakout season,” Bailey said.
“We’re not talking Estevao or Endrick level just yet, but how many are at that level? He’s a very good prospect, and one that Newcastle have been doing some work on.”
Bailey noted that, as well as the Magpies, the teenage sensation is also attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton.
Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images
Ross Wilson could help Newcastle United land Rayan
Newcastle United will face strong competition for Rayan if they decide to formalise their interest, but they could have a couple of aces up their sleeve if they do opt to make a move.
As Bailey explains to Geordie Boot Boys, Newcastle United’s head of recruitment Steve Nickson is well connected in Brazil, as is new Toon sporting director Ross Wilson.
“Steve Nickson has good contacts in South America,” he said.
“Ross Wilson does too, as we saw during his time with Nottingham Forest. They bought Murillo, Igor Jesus, Jair Cunha, John Victor and Cuiabano. They did a plethora of deals in that part of the world.”
If Newcastle were to make a move for Rayan, he would come in as a project player who is seen as one for the future rather than the present.
In terms of major first-team signings, Newcastle are expected to be quiet in January as it stands.
