Player ‘getting closer’ to Newcastle United – Family travel to England as Magpies step up negotiations

Newcastle United appear to be on the verge of securing the signature of Málaga’s highly-rated young winger Antonio Cordero, commonly known as Antoñito, ahead of the summer transfer window.

Reports from Spain suggest that the 18-year-old is edging closer to a move, with the Magpies making significant progress in negotiations. His impressive performances this season have not gone unnoticed, and with his contract set to expire in June, interest from top European clubs has intensified.

Antoñito has been a standout performer for Málaga since his return in 2023, establishing himself as a key player in their squad. The young winger has contributed four goals and six assists in 26 league appearances, showcasing his ability to make a decisive impact in the final third.

His consistent displays in Spain’s second division have drawn the attention of several clubs, with Newcastle emerging as the frontrunner in the race for his signature. While Málaga are keen to retain their talented prospect, their attempts to secure a contract extension have so far been unsuccessful.

The Spanish club initially presented a renewal offer, but the terms failed to satisfy the teenager. Even after revising their proposal, the negotiations hit another roadblock, as his agent deemed the release clause too high compared to the salary offered.

As a result, the likelihood of Antoñito committing his future to Málaga appears slim, increasing the possibility of him departing as a free agent this summer. With Newcastle leading the chase, the young winger’s future looks set to be in England rather than Spain.

The competition for his signature extends beyond the Magpies, with Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester City also keeping tabs on the teenager’s situation.

However, Newcastle have taken decisive steps to convince him that St. James’ Park is the ideal destination for his development. Antoñito’s family recently traveled to the UK to visit Newcastle’s facilities, indicating that discussions have reached an advanced stage.

The club has intensified its efforts to finalize the deal, and negotiations are reportedly close to completion. However, given the unpredictable nature of transfer dealings, late twists in the saga cannot be ruled out.

All signs currently point to Newcastle as the chosen club, with anticipation building over the final decision from the Spain U19 international. If the move materializes, the Magpies will have secured a highly promising young talent who could become an integral part of their long-term project.

His skill set, versatility, and attacking flair make him a player with significant potential, and a transition to English football could accelerate his development.

Newcastle’s ambition to strengthen their squad with emerging stars aligns with this pursuit, as they aim to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.

With the summer transfer window approaching, anticipation grows over whether Newcastle can finalize the deal and add Antoñito to their ranks.

If completed, it would mark another step in the club’s strategy of investing in young talent with high potential. As negotiations progress, the footballing world watches closely to see if the Spanish prodigy will officially make Newcastle his next home.