Newcastle United may once again look to Brazil for answers as they continue their search for fresh energy and long-term quality in the January transfer window. After a demanding first half of the Premier League campaign, Eddie Howe’s side find themselves sitting ninth in the table, a position that reflects both their potential and their frustrating inconsistency.
With injuries, fatigue, and an ageing core beginning to show, the club’s recruitment team appears ready to explore new options, especially after seeing an early move elsewhere fall through.
Reports from Brazil suggest that Newcastle have now turned their attention to Santos left-back Souza, a highly rated 19-year-old who is starting to attract serious interest across Europe. According to Brazilian outlet Somos Fanáticos, Newcastle have stepped up their scouting of the teenager, although they are still weighing up whether a move in January makes sense.
This comes after Santos reportedly rejected a £9 million approach from Tottenham Hotspur, making it clear that they value the player much higher, closer to £17 million.
Santos are under no pressure to sell. Souza is tied down to a contract until 2028, and the Brazilian club believe his value could rise significantly with more senior minutes and exposure.
That stance has naturally made Premier League clubs cautious. Chelsea are also said to be keeping a close eye on the situation, while Newcastle have not yet made a formal bid. For now, it appears to be a case of monitoring rather than rushing into a deal.
Those who have followed Souza closely describe him as a very modern Brazilian full-back. Transfermarkt analyst Thiago Rabelo has spoken about the qualities that make the youngster stand out, pointing to his pace, bravery, and attacking instincts.
Souza is quick over short and long distances, loves to drive forward with the ball, and is comfortable dribbling at speed, which is a huge asset for a wide defender in today’s game. His willingness to attack space and stretch the pitch fits the profile Newcastle often look for in their full-backs.
That said, there is also a clear understanding that Souza remains a work in progress. Rabelo himself highlighted that the defender still has plenty to improve, especially when it comes to physical strength and defensive positioning.
These are common areas for young Brazilian full-backs adapting to the demands of European football, and Newcastle will be well aware that patience would be required if they decide to move forward.
Souza is not the only Brazilian talent Newcastle have been linked with in recent weeks. The club have also explored the possibility of signing Palmeiras midfielder Allan Elias, another highly regarded youngster.
Last month, it was reported that Newcastle were keen on reaching a quick agreement for the 21-year-old, but those plans quickly cooled due to the financial demands involved. Elias reportedly has a release clause of around £87 million, a figure Newcastle were never realistically prepared to pay for a player with limited senior experience and no exposure to Europe’s top leagues.
Further reports from ESPN Brazil claimed that Newcastle informed Palmeiras they would not be making an official approach because of the asking price. Even though Palmeiras are believed to be open to offers closer to £39.5 million, that figure is still seen as too high given Elias has less than a full season at senior level.
Newcastle’s approach here shows a level of restraint that has defined much of their recent recruitment strategy, focusing on value and long-term planning rather than hype alone.
It is easy to see why Palmeiras players attract such attention. The club’s academy has produced a stream of elite talents in recent years, with names like Endrick, Willian Estêvão, Vitor Reis, and Luís Guilherme all making strong impressions either in Europe or on the global stage. That reputation alone ensures any standout youngster will come with a heavy price tag.
Away from Brazil, Newcastle are also actively assessing options closer to home. Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell has emerged as a strong candidate as the club looks to refresh an ageing back line.
With Fabian Schär now 34, Dan Burn reaching the same age, Jamal Lascelles unlikely to remain beyond this season, Emil Krafth at 31, and Kieran Trippier approaching 35, the need for younger defensive reinforcements is becoming impossible to ignore.
Cresswell, who is 23 and valued at around £22 million, fits the profile Newcastle are targeting. He has impressed in Ligue 1 with his physical presence, composure, and leadership, and would represent both immediate cover and a long-term investment.
Lowering the average age of the squad has become a quiet priority for the club, and adding a defender entering his prime would be a sensible step.
Newcastle’s scouting work has not stopped there. Chief scout Steve Nickson was spotted at Wolves recently, where teenage winger Mateus Mané was one of the players being watched.
Despite Wolves struggling this season, the 19-year-old has been a bright spot, scoring in a 3-0 win over West Ham that marked their first league victory of the 2025/26 campaign. His confidence and directness have not gone unnoticed.
There is also the possibility that Newcastle could revisit their interest in striker Jørgen Strand Larsen, after failing to land him in the summer. Any renewed move would come with competition, as Tottenham are also said to be keen, with Thomas Frank a known admirer of the Wolves forward.
As the window continues, Newcastle’s strategy appears clear. They are casting a wide net, balancing youth with experience, and refusing to be drawn into reckless spending. Whether that leads them back to Brazil with a move for Souza, or toward more familiar European options, the coming weeks could play a key role in shaping not just this season, but the club’s future direction.
