Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Arsenal have all been linked with the Brazilian.
Marcos Leonardo has finalized his transfer to Benfica of Portugal.
After scoring 54 goals in 168 appearances for Brazilian giants Santos FC, the 20-year-old is claimed to have piqued the interest of many Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Arsenal.
However, the striker will not be arriving in England this month after signing a five-and-a-half-year deal with Benfica. The trade was said to have cost £15.5 million.
“I’m very happy that Benfica chose me and also that I chose Benfica,” Leonardo remarked.”It’s a fantastic club in Portugal, and many Brazilian players, such as Jonas, have made a name for themselves here.”
“I hope to repeat their feat, score lots of goals, help the team and win lots of titles.”
Rafaela Pimenta, Leonardo’s agent, stated in November that a transfer to Europe was in the works.
“Already in the previous transfer market he had the possibility of being sold, but Santos’ sporting situation was very particular,” Pimenta told reporters. “He agreed to stay because he wanted to help out until the end of the championship.”He didn’t want to go 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 thinking about adding a forward in January.
Callum Wilson (calf) has been ruled out of Saturday’s derby against Sunderland and the visit of Manchester City to St James’ Park next week, leaving Eddie Howe’s side with just one fit senior striker available for the entire month of January.
The responsibility will fall on Alexander Isak, who has struggled with a groin injury this season.
