Newcastle United are reportedly tracking Ben Brereton Diaz ahead of a potential transfer move.
The Lowdown: The Chilean from Stoke
Born in Stoke-on-Trent, Brereton Diaz changed his national allegiance to Chile in June this year after playing for England at youth level, and has since managed to score three goals in nine games for the South American nation across all competitions (Transfermarkt).
The Chilean press have since raved about him after some of his performances in the Copa America and in World Cup qualifying, with journalist Cecilia Lagos claiming that the 22-year-old is a 'box killer' who is 'so eager', 'so active' and 'fits like a glove' (BBC).
Brereton Diaz has become such a popular player in the South American country that he is now the face of their Pepsi commercial (BBC), and his aim is now to help Chile qualify for the World Cup in Qatar next year.
The Latest: Newcastle tracking him
As per Football League World, Newcastle are among a number of clubs who are now tracking Brereton Diaz ahead of a potential move.
Leeds United, Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion and Southampton have also been tracking the 22-year-old, who has admirers in Sevilla as well.
The Verdict: Wilson alternative?
With 16 goals in just 19 Championship games so far this season (Transfermarkt), Brereton Diaz has shown that he looks capable of making the step up to the Premier League.
The 6 foot 1 striker could be a very nice alternative to Callum Wilson, who does come with injury scares. Notably, Newcastle failed to win and only managed to score four times in the four-game period that he missed earlier in the campaign (Transfermarkt).
Thus, when Wilson is injured or finds himself out of form, Brereton Diaz would be a valuable understudy to have, and the two could even play alongside one another if he is particularly impressing Eddie Howe.
He might also attract a new Chilean following to Tyneside, and he seems like a player who the Toon Army could easily get behind.
In other news, NUFC are considering a shock return for this midfielder