Real Madrid interested in 20-year-old Brazilian striker, Newcastle United also keen | OneFootball

Real Madrid are always alert to the talents popping up in the South American region, in particular Brazil.

Over the years, the Merengues have signed players like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo Goes, and Reinier Jesus, while more recently they acquired the services of Endrick, who will be arriving next summer.

The Spanish capital club continue to keep an eye out on the young prospects coming through the scenes in Brazil and it appears that a new name has appeared on their radars.

Real Madrid interested in Marcos Leonardo

Indeed, as per reports from GE Globo, Real Madrid are interested in Santos striker Marcos Leonardo, who has enjoyed a productive 2023 campaign in Brazil.

The 20-year-old centre-forward has registered 21 goals and four assists from 43 matches across all competitions for Santos this season, catching the eye of Real Madrid.

As per the report, Los Blancos have already made contact with Leonardo’s agent to make enquiry regarding the player’s profile and willingness to move to Europe.

In fact, Fernando Brito, one of the young striker’s representatives, was even present at the Santiago Bernabeu last night when Los Blancos defeated SC Braga 3-0 in the UEFA Champions League.

Marcos Leonardo has made an impression on Real Madrid. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

Newcastle United also keen

However, Real Madrid are not the only club in the picture for Leonardo, as Premier League big-spenders Newcastle United have also taken a liking to the young forward.

Indeed, as per the report, days before Real Madrid’s enquiry, the Magpies too had made contact with the Brazilian prospect’s entourage to ask about him.

Meanwhile, AS Roma had also shown interest in him in the past but were shot down by Santos.

Leonardo has a contract with the Brazilian club until 2026, who own 70% of his rights. There has been no formal talk between any of the clubs at this point and it remains to be seen if there is further development from Real Madrid or Newcastle.