Newcastle set to launch bid for Allan Elias - Report

As we draw closer to the January transfer window, it’s looking increasingly likely that we sign a young midfielder to bolster the squad and build for the future.

Plenty of names have been linked in the past few weeks, with AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit the most prominent, and Auxerre talent Kevin Danois also on the radar now Elliot Anderson appears out of reach for now.

But whoever we sign needs to be more than just a fresh face amongst an already-packed part of the squad: the ideal candidate is young with immense potential, who could be either a starter for years to come, or someone we can flip for immense profit in little to no time at all.

And if reports from Brazil offer any indication, we have a top Palmeiras talent well within our sights...

“Concrete offer” set for Allan Elias

According to Brazilian outlet Portal do Palestra, Newcastle are preparing to launch a January bid or rising star Allan Elias.

The Palmeiras midfielder, widely expected to be the next great player to emerge from the club in recent years, has been linked with a move to Tyneside in recent months, and it's claimed we are now set to make a “concrete offer” for the 21-year-old.

Despite having a €100m release clause in his contract, Palmeiras seem expected to listen to bids in the region of €32m (£28m), with another big sale lined up after Real Madrid and Chelsea's recent moves for Endrick and Estevao respectively.

Steve Nickson has been developing the club's scouting portfolio in Brazil in recent years, although he'll be supported by the recent arrival of Thomas Federspiel, who's come in from Nottingham Forest as a global talent scout across Brazil, Ecuador and Colombia.

Eddie Howe’s pending midfield problem

Right now, the midfield is still in excellent shape: Bruno Guimaraes is arguably the Premier League player of the season outside of Man City and Arsenal’s squads, Sandro Tonali is top level, and Lewis Miley has shown he is ready to play a first team role when handed the opportunity.

The issue Howe may soon face is what to do with the other midfielders: Joelinton is a big earner and a popular figure both in the squad and amongst fans, but his age and fitness will gradually become more of a concern and a long-term replacement is needed.

Then there’s the duo of Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey: whilst both are still solid options, their chances of becoming first team starters certainly aren’t helped by the possibility of players like Allan Elias or Smit coming in.

Signing either could help future proof this area of our squad, but bringing in either would almost certainly rely on on of our current options to depart in January, with Willock a leading contender given Crystal Palace's interest.