Newcastle United Win The Race For In-demand Spanish Attacker – What’s Next For This Teenage Sensation? | OneFootball

If a recent report from the Chronicle is believed to be true, Newcastle United have secured the services of Antonio Cordero and will announce his arrival next month once his contract with Malaga expires by the end of June. Real Madrid and Barcelona were also keen, but the Magpies have won the race, with the Spanish talent ready to ply his trade to Tyneside, knocking off an opportunity to stay and flourish in his homeland.

However, Newcastle United have yet to decide whether to loan him out for the upcoming campaign. Ajax could be a temporary destination for the 18-year-old; however, the club remain focused on PSR, and then bolster the squad with several first-team signings under sporting director Paul Mitchel’s recruitment push.

While their summer business hinges on Champions League qualification, snapping up Cordero should be viewed as one for the future. A regular for Spain’s U19s, the attacking prospect joined Malaga’s academy ranks after spending his early years with Jerez Alternativa, Xerez Balompié, Cadiz, Sevilla and Betis.

BUCHAREST, ROMANIA – OCTOBER 09: Almugera Kabar (L) of U19 Germany jumps to the ball with Antonio Jose Cordero (R) of U19 Spain during the Nations Tournament match between U19 Germany and U19 Spain at Stadionul Anghel Iordanescu on October 09, 2024 in Bucharest, Romania. (Photo by Vasile Mihai-Antonio/Getty Images for DFB)

Cordero made an immediate impact for the Blanquiazules as he scored a decisive goal en route to clinching a promotion to Segunda División. With six goals and seven assists this season in 37 La Liga 2 appearances, the teenage winger showed why he is rated highly by top European outfits.

Why Newcastle United Should Sanction A Summer Loan

Although he has been productive from both flanks, the left-wing role suits his attributes as an inverted wideman. His flair, finesse, swift footwork and cut-insides would bolster the Geordies high up the pitch, particularly after losing several wide attacking options throughout the campaign.

With no European football to offer, Newcastle were forced to offload Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh to comply with PSR. Ryan Fraser and Miguel Almirón have also parted ways, thus leaving them with Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy as the only outright wingers. A lesser number of fixtures helped Eddie Howe manage their minutes and deal with injuries. But he must demand reinforcements now, considering the League Cup winners would be in Europe next season, irrespective of Sunday’s outcome against Everton.

Meanwhile, a win at St James’ Park will see them secure Champions League football. A loan move for Cordero would be the best possible solution in that case, as he would struggle for gametime both in the Premier League and the top-tier European event. Nevertheless, the sky is the limit for the teenager who should grow his game under Howe’s tutelage at Benton.