Newcastle United are believed to have made an approach to sign Vasco da Gama midfielder, Andrey Santos, although face competition from a host of European clubs.

What's the word?

According to Globo Esporte, the Magpies have made an offer of around €35m (£30m) for the highly-rated 18-year-old, with his current side to consider the proposal in the 'coming days' ahead of a possible January switch.

The report suggests that the Brazilian starlet could well be tempted by that interest from the northeast side, despite having reportedly only recently signed a new five-year deal that runs until 2027.

Further reports have indicated there could well be rival interest for his signature, however, with La Liga giants Barcelona also believed to be keen, while reports earlier this year suggested that the likes of Wolverhampton Wanderers and AC Milan were also in the mix.

Howe's own Busquets

Despite the window having only just slammed shut a matter of days ago, it would appear that Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is already setting his sights on the January market, with midfield no doubt an area of concern amid the current lack of depth at the Englishman's disposal.

The loan departure of Isaac Hayden as well as the recent absence of Jonjo Shelvey has illustrated the real stark shortage of options in the centre of the park, with the Tynesiders also perhaps still lacking a true defensive-minded asset at the base of the midfield.

The arrival of young Santos could well help to alleviate that problem, with the 5 foot 9 sensation typically lining up in a holding role at his current club, having been notably lauded as a "monster" by compatriot Juninho Pernambucano.

As per GOAL, the emerging prospect has also been likened to Spanish icon Sergio Busquets for his ability on the ball and for his quality at screening in front of the back four, with that comparison no doubt piquing the interest of those at St James' Park such is the veteran gem's outstanding talent.

Previously noted as the "best in the world" in his position by current Manchester United man Casemiro, the 34-year-old has been a leading figure at the Camp Nou over the last decade or so, racking up 683 appearances in all competitions for the Catalan outfit in what has been a glittering career for both club and country to date.

The one-club man is a true pass master and a genius in possession, with the 137-cap playmaker simply exuding calmness and composure no matter the occasion, having thrived on the big stage repeatedly over a number of years.

To think Santos could well mirror that talent is a hugely exciting prospect, as is the fact that the teenager also possesses a further string to his bow due to his attacking quality, having scored five goals in just 27 appearances at senior level thus far.

It may take a sizeable fee to pluck the inexperienced gem from his homeland, although if the recent evidence is anything to go by, it could well be worth it.