Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing a wealth of youth talent this January.

What’s the latest?

As per The Athletic, the next target for the Tyneside outfit could be coming in from Argentina, in the form of 19-year-old Maximo Perrone.

The youngster has been starring in the Velez Sarsfield midfield since his debut in March 2022, and could now be set for a move to England to underpin the next generation at St James’ Park.

The Magpies are said to be tracking the teenage talent, with a budget in place to attain similar starlets in the way they have done with Garang Kuol.

Ditch Longstaff

One facet of which Eddie Howe cannot be faulted is his fostering of an immense team spirit since joining the club in November 2021.

Whilst others might mock the dressing room photos after each win, it clearly is part of the philosophy the 45-year-old is keen to implement on their way to the top.

As such, it has allowed even the most disregarded of players a resurgence, outlined to perfection in the revival of Miguel Almiron.

Having already scored eight this Premier League season, the Paraguayan has understandably stolen headlines.

However, going about his renaissance quietly in the background is Sean Longstaff, who deputised impressively in the absence of Bruno Guimaraes at the base of midfield.

Despite this, his average Sofascore rating of 6.69 suggests there are still big deficiencies in his game that can be improved upon.

That could be where Perrone steps in, to fulfil that role just outside the starting team before eventually forcing his way in.

The 5-foot-10 maestro has enjoyed a breakout year of sorts, featuring 33 times for his team whilst scoring three and assisting twice.

However, even in the youth setup, he had caught the eye of Gabriel Heinze. He noted of Perrone: “There is a boy in the academy team who is spectacular.”

For a debut season, a rating of 6.79 is certainly admirable. He has averaged 56.1 touches per game alongside an 88% pass accuracy, highlighting him as someone who demands the ball despite his youth.

He pairs this with 1.5 interceptions and 1.1 tackles per game, actually marking an increase on the 0.5 and 1.1 of Longstaff respectively.

Given the years Perrone has on the Newcastle-born midfielder and the lack of gulf in quality between them, there is surely belief that if a move materialises it will see the Argentinian propelled high up in the pecking order.