Marcos Leonardo, a January ‘target’ for Newcastle United, has found a new club.
Marcos Leonardo of Santos is poised to join Benfica after being linked with a number of Premier League clubs.
Newcastle United were said to be interested in the 20-year-old Brazilian after sending scouts to South America. Arsenal and Manchester United have also been connected with Leonardo, who has 54 goals in 168 appearances for Santos.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the youthful attacker has decided to join Benfica on a £15.5 million deal. “Marcos Leonardo to Benfica, here we go!” Romano tweeted. After an initial bid on Tuesday, an agreement was reached with Santos for the Brazilian striker. There will be no add-ons to the €18 million [£15.5 million] charge.
“Marcos Leonardo has accepted.” Documents must be examined and signed.”
Rafaela Pimenta, Leonardo’s agent, indicated ahead of the January transfer season that his client will be trying to go to Europe in January.
“He had the possibility of being sold already in the previous transfer market,” Pimenta explained, “but Santos’ sporting situation was very particular.” He agreed to stay since he wanted to help out till the championship was over.
“He didn’t want to leave because he knew it was wrong. But the moment has come to make a change. He wants to travel to Europe, and his chance will come this winter.”
Newcastle are still without a new signing three days into the January transfer window. Kalvin Phillips has been linked with a loan move from Manchester City, although there could be stumbling blocks due to a £7.5 million loan fee and guarantees over playing time.
