Andrey Santos on Newcastle radar

Newcastle United have been in contact with Brazilian side Vasco da Gama regarding a move for 18-year-old midfielder Andrey Santos. The Brazilian under-16 international has caught the eye with a number of impressive performances for the Rio de Janeiro side, and is already valued at a reported $40 million.

Despite only being 18, the versatile youngster has already appeared 28 times for the club's first XI, scoring seven goals and that is impressive considering the player is a holding defensive midfielder.

It is understood that Newcastle are ready to move to the next step to sign the player, interacting with the starlet's agents and other representatives with regards to a move in the January transfer window.

The Toon Army are looking to bolster their squad in the winter months and with both Real Madrid and Barcelona considering a potential transfer for Andrey Santos, the club want to move quickly to secure a deal.

Whilst it is too early for the midfielder to be a member of Brazil's national team and the upcoming World Cup, he is hoping that a move to the Premier League will improve his chances of international recognition.