Newcastle United have Vasco da Gama midfielder Andrey Santos on their ‘wish list’, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Lowdown: Recent interest

The Premier League side have certainly strengthened their squad ever since PIF completed the takeover of the club last year, though they are now on the lookout for a talented prospect as a signing for the future.

The Magpies have held an interest in the Brazilian, with reports last month claiming that the 18-year-old, who is valued at approximately £20m, was in talks over a potential move to St. James’ Park.

The Latest: Downie’s comments

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Downie revealed that Newcastle are in the process of looking at several younger players, and name-checked Santos as being one of the particular targets.

“I think he’s one of a number of younger players they’re looking to bring in, to try and get around the FFP rules.

“We saw them bring in the guy from Australia, Garang Kuol, 18 years old, and I think this is another player on that kind of wish list."

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The Verdict: Guimaraes successor

Santos has been dubbed a ‘monster’ by Juninho, and he could be seen as the ideal long-term successor of Bruno Guimaraes in the northeast.

The teenager has bags of potential and has already shown what he’s capable of this year having scored eight goals, not to mention he has the versatility to operate in all positions across a midfield (Transfermarkt).

If the opportunity to land him does arise next year, Eddie Howe and co could jump at the chance to secure his services and bag themselves a possible star in the making.