PIF already previously registered their interest in a deal for the centre-forward ahead of January.
Newcastle United have already made contact to express their interest in bringing in an overseas striker, and a new report claims that he has made one specific transfer demand that will determine if he joins in January.
Newcastle’s attacking options
The Magpies now have Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson as their obvious center-forward options, but it looks that the club is aiming to reinforce their attacking frontline ranks during the upcoming transfer window due to injury concerns.
PIF and Eddie Howe are reportedly keeping a close eye on Hugo Ekitike of Paris Saint-Germain and Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Everton. While the latter is more of a summer target, chiefs have identified an alternative should a move for the former fail to materialize at the start of next year.
Marcos Leonardo has firmly established himself as Marcelo Faria Fernandes’ best-performing offensive player so far this season at Santos (WhoScored – Santos statistics), and the 20-year-old’s outstanding form has already piqued the interest of English Premier League clubs.
So far, Brazil’s young international has surfaced as a target for Arsenal, Manchester United, and West Ham, but according to the latest update, he’s also been brought onto the radar of the black and white stripes at St. James’ Park.
PIF given demand from Marcos Leonardo
Newcastle have already made an attempt for Leonardo ahead of January, according to Brazilian publication Globo Esporte (via Sport Witness), but he has apparently made a demand regarding any potential transfer.
Arsenal and Real Madrid have also expressed interest in the striker, and as he awaits an offer from one of his possible suitors, it’s said he’s told his entourage that his goal is to compete in next year’s Olympics.
The Santos talisman wants to reach an agreement with any potential new club before signing a deal, and while discussions are still “informal” at this point, he’s serious about his new move being a long-term project to advance his career.
Leonardo could be a “natural goalscorer” for Newcastle
Leonardo has produced 65 contributions, 54 goals, and 11 assists in 164 games since the start of his career, demonstrating how productive he can be in the final third (Transfermarkt – Leonardo statistics), and he’s continually posing a danger even if the end result isn’t always there.
Nike-sponsored Itapetinga native has recorded 70 shots this season, more than any of his teammates (FBRef – Santos statistics), showcasing his drive to hit the net and striker’s instinct in the opposition’s area.
Furthermore, Howe’s striker has gotten four Man of the Match accolades this season in Serie A (WhoScored – Leonardo statistics), demonstrating that the individual contribution he provides to a team is recognized and rightfully rewarded.
Leonardo is a “natural goalscorer,” according to football talent scout Jacek Kulig, so it’s no surprise that so many clubs are interested in him, and it would be a tremendous coup if he chose Newcastle as his next destination in January.
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