Newcastle targeting wonderkid Eguinaldo, 18, in January transfer but must pay £26m for Brazilian second-tier winger

NEWCASTLE are lining up a January swoop for Brazilian wonderkid Eguinaldo.

The winger’s agent has confirmed Toon are one of several clubs keen on a move this winter.

But Newcastle will have to meet Eguinaldo’s £26million release clause to get a deal over the line.

The Vasco ace, who stars in Brazil’s second tier, can play across the entire front three but is most at home on the left.

Eguinaldo, 18, has three goals in 18 games this season.

And Newcastle have been keeping close tabs after seeing compatriots Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes shine at St James’ Park.

Eguinaldo only recently signed a new five-year deal with Vasco.

But that included a new release clause worth £26m for interested parties.

Eguinaldo’s agent has now confirmed Newcastle could meet that figure once the January window opens.

However, they may have to move quickly due to interest from other sides.

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Reports in Brazil claim West Ham’s Head of Recruitment was seen at Vasco’s training ground last week.

And that could heat things up in the race for Eguinaldo.

His agent told Canal do Pedrosa: “There is an observation from Newcastle over Eguinaldo.

“But there is also the observation of several other clubs.

“These are very early things and they are not even considered negotiations or anything very official.”