Newcastle United have pulled off a significant coup in the football transfer market by securing the services of 18-year-old Spanish striker Antonio Cordero from Malaga, beating out fierce competition from European giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. The deal, confirmed by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, marks a pivotal moment in Newcastle's ongoing strategy to build a team rich in young talent.
Cordero, who has made a name for himself in LaLiga 2, is expected to join Newcastle officially when the summer transfer window opens. His contract with Malaga is set to expire at the end of June 2025, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs since the start of the year. This move comes after extensive talks between Newcastle and Cordero, which began earlier this year.
Having made his debut for Malaga at just 16 years old, Cordero has quickly become one of the standout players in the Spanish second division. This season, he has made 33 appearances, scoring five goals and providing six assists across all competitions. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, as he has also been a regular feature for Spain’s Under-19 national team, contributing two goals and two assists in six qualifying matches for the European Under-19 Championship.
Newcastle's sporting director, Paul Mitchell, emphasized the importance of scouting and recruiting emerging talent as a cornerstone of the club's future. "Scouting and recruiting emerging talent is an essential part of building a sustainable future, particularly within the current Profit and Sustainability Rules framework, so the market is fiercely competitive," Mitchell stated. "We continue to scout extensively, both domestically and overseas, with a view to securing players who can come through our talent pathway and, ideally, become part of the first team in the future."
The Magpies have been proactive in their approach, having already agreed to sign another promising player, Vakhtang Salia, from Dinamo Tbilisi. Salia is expected to be loaned out for the 2025-26 season, a strategy that Newcastle successfully executed with Yankuba Minteh, who was loaned to Feyenoord after joining the club.
Antonio Cordero's rise to prominence began with his crucial goal that secured Malaga's promotion from the Spanish third division last season. His talent was evident as he helped his team climb the ranks, and his performances have made him a sought-after player despite offers from several top clubs, including Porto. Ultimately, Cordero chose Newcastle for what appears to be a more promising pathway to first-team football.
Reports indicate that Cordero will sign a five-year contract with Newcastle, and while the club will need to pay compensation to Malaga, the specifics of the agreement are yet to be disclosed. The young winger is primarily known for his play on the left flank, although he is comfortable on both sides of the pitch.
As the football world eagerly anticipates the official announcement of Cordero's signing, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with excitement about what this means for Newcastle's future. With a clear vision in place, the club is positioning itself to compete not just domestically but on a European level as well.
The signing of Antonio Cordero is not just a victory in the transfer market; it represents a strategic move that aligns with Newcastle's long-term goals. The club's commitment to nurturing young talent is evident, and Cordero is poised to be a key figure in their ambitions.
In the coming weeks, as the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Newcastle United to see how they integrate Cordero into their squad and how he adapts to the rigors of the Premier League. The excitement surrounding his potential is palpable, and supporters are hopeful that he can replicate his success at Malaga on the bigger stage.
With the transfer window now on the horizon, Newcastle's proactive approach is a testament to their ambition and determination to build a formidable team capable of challenging for honors in the seasons to come. The arrival of Cordero, alongside other emerging talents, could herald a new era for the Magpies, one filled with promise and potential.
