Craig Hope has reported in the Daily Mail’s Newcastle Confidential that Newcastle United’s scouting activity remains strong in Belgium and the Netherlands, though only one of several watched players has developed
into what he describes as a “live” level of interest.
Hope wrote that “Newcastle have watched Joel Ordonez of Club Bruges,” noting that the 21-year-old Ecuadorian centre-back “is liked by a host of Premier League clubs” and is expected to move to England for his next step.
Added Hope: “As it stands with Newcastle, there is nothing active on that front, beyond scouts taking a close look.”
In contrast, Hope reported that “there is more of a live interest in AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit,” stating that Newcastle believe they may be able to assemble a package that could appeal to the 19-year-old.
Hope wrote that AZ “want between £20-25m” for the Netherlands Under-21 midfielder, who is drawing competition “from home and abroad.”
On South America, Hope addressed speculation surrounding Vasco da Gama’s Rayan Vitor.
Hope reported that the links are “being driven by agents attempting to get Rayan a move to the Premier League.” The insider added that “Newcastle are aware of him and have been contacted by several agents, but that’s as far as it’s gone at present.”
