Antonio Cordero set for unexpected move – Big report from Spain and ‘source close’ to player

The trajectory of young talents leaving Newcastle United for European loan spells has been a mixed bag in recent years, with more disappointments than success stories.

Antonio Cordero, however, is determined to defy the odds and prove exactly why the club secured his signature this summer.

Arriving on a free transfer from Malaga, the expectation was clear from the outset—Cordero would be sent out on loan to gain first-team experience, unlike fellow newcomer Seung-soo Park, who will stay on Tyneside to continue his development.

Initial rumors pointed toward a temporary move to Dutch powerhouse Ajax, but fresh reports from Spain now indicate a surprising twist, with Belgium emerging as the likely destination.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JUNE 05: Antonio Cordero poses for photographs prior to signing for the club at the Newcastle United Training Centre prior to signing for the club on June 05, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

A New Chapter in Belgium?

According to SportDirect Radio, a Spanish outlet with close ties to Malaga, Cordero is on the verge of joining Belgian side KVC Westerlo for the 2025/26 season.

The publication cites a source close to the player, claiming the 18-year-old winger will spend the upcoming campaign in the Jupiler Pro League.

This development comes as a slight surprise, given earlier speculation linking him to Ajax—one of the many top clubs Newcastle beat in the race to sign him.

Westerlo, who narrowly missed out on European qualification after finishing ninth last season, may not carry the same prestige as the Dutch giants, but the move could offer Cordero something far more valuable: consistent playing time.

Only one player in history has represented both Newcastle and Westerlo—Algerian striker Islam Slimani, whose brief loan spell at St. James’ Park yielded just four forgettable appearances.

While the Belgian club may not be the glamorous destination some fans envisioned, the priority remains ensuring Cordero gets the minutes he needs to flourish.

For a player of Cordero’s caliber—fresh off an impressive showing at the U-19 European Championships and previously linked with Ajax—Westerlo might seem like an underwhelming choice at first glance.

CATANZARO, ITALY – MARCH 22, 2025: Antonio Cordero of Spain celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal from a penalty during the UEFA European U19 Championship Elite Round Group 5 match between Italy U19 and Spain U19 at Stadio Nicola Ceravolo. (Photo credit should read Andrea Rosito / GocherImagery/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

However, the risks of a high-profile loan that offers limited opportunities cannot be ignored. Recent cases like Garang Kuol and Miodrag Pivas serve as cautionary tales; both struggled for game time in the Netherlands, stalling their progress and denting their confidence.

The Belgian league, while not as high-profile as some of Europe’s elite divisions, provides a competitive environment where young talents can thrive. Regular starts in a mid-table side could be far more beneficial than sporadic appearances at a bigger club.

For Cordero, the key will be adapting quickly, making an impact, and returning to Newcastle with the experience needed to push for a first-team role.

Newcastle’s strategy here appears to prioritize substance over spectacle. Rather than chasing a marquee loan destination, the focus is squarely on what will best serve Cordero’s long-term development.

If he can seize this opportunity, his time in Belgium could prove to be a pivotal step in his journey toward Premier League football.

Only time will tell if this move pays off, but one thing is certain: Antonio Cordero’s career is at a crucial juncture, and the coming season could define his path to success.