Newcastle United are preparing to make a fresh decision on the future of one of their most exciting young talents, with Antonio Cordero set to return to Spain after a disappointing loan spell in Belgium. The Magpies moved quickly to correct what has clearly not worked, putting the player’s development first as the January transfer window approaches.
Cordero arrived at Newcastle in the summer amid strong competition from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Real Madrid and Barcelona were both linked with the winger before Newcastle managed to secure his signature, a move that was widely praised at the time.
With extensive experience at youth international level for Spain and a growing reputation back home, the deal was seen as a real statement of intent from the club’s recruitment team.
The plan was always for Cordero to gain regular senior minutes away from Tyneside, which led to a loan move to Belgian side Westerlo. On paper, it looked like a sensible step. In reality, it has been a frustrating and unproductive period for the 19-year-old. Opportunities were limited almost from the start, and as the months passed, his involvement became even more scarce.
Cordero has made just seven league appearances for Westerlo, and since September he has been on the pitch for a total of only eight minutes in league action. For a young player still adjusting to senior football, that lack of game time is far from ideal.
Newcastle officials are understood to be unhappy with how the situation unfolded, especially given how highly they rate the winger’s long-term potential.
Rather than allow the loan to drift on and stall the player’s progress, Newcastle have decided to act decisively. The agreement with Westerlo has been terminated, clearing the way for Cordero to head back to Spain for the remainder of the season. According to respected transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a deal has already been agreed for the youngster to join Cadiz on loan.
Cadiz currently compete in Spain’s second division, a league Cordero knows well and one in which he previously impressed before making his move to England. That familiarity is seen as a major positive.
Newcastle believe returning to a more comfortable environment, both culturally and tactically, will give Cordero the best chance to rebuild confidence and play the regular football he needs at this stage of his career.
Romano confirmed the move on social media, stating that Cadiz had won the race to sign the talented winger after Newcastle and Westerlo agreed to end the Belgian loan early. From Newcastle’s point of view, the priority is simple. Cordero needs minutes, rhythm, and responsibility, and Cadiz are expected to provide exactly that.
The situation is a reminder that not every loan move works out, even when the logic behind it seems sound. Belgian football can be demanding for young players, especially those adapting to a new country and style of play for the first time.
For Cordero, the transition proved difficult, but Newcastle’s swift response shows their belief in the player has not faded.
When Cordero first arrived at St James’ Park, he spoke openly about his ambition and his excitement at joining such a historic club. He described the move as an honour and said he wanted to aim high by testing himself in one of the best environments in world football.
Those words reflected a young player full of confidence and hunger, qualities Newcastle still see in him.
This new loan move is not a step backwards, but rather a reset. Newcastle remain convinced that Cordero can develop into a first-team option in the future, but they also understand that progress at his age is closely linked to time on the pitch.
Sitting on the bench or watching from the stands does little to help a young winger refine his decision-making, sharpen his instincts, or cope with the physical demands of senior football.
A successful spell at Cadiz could quickly put Cordero back on track. Regular starts, freedom to express himself, and the comfort of playing in his home country may allow his talent to shine once again. For Newcastle, this move is about protecting an investment and giving a promising youngster the best possible chance to fulfil his potential.
As January approaches, the focus will now be on how Cordero responds to this fresh opportunity. If he can rediscover his form and confidence in Spain, Newcastle will feel justified in their decision to step in early and change course. In the long run, this could prove to be a smart and timely move for both club and player.
