Why Andrey Santos is the perfect no.6 for Newcastle

Newcastle United desperately need a competent number six to anchor the engine room. It is reportedly one of the priorities for the hierarchy at St James’ Park.

The Magpies have sold Sandro Tonali and need someone to take his place, ideally beside Johan Manzambi and Bruno Guimaraes.

Newcastle have been linked to Angelo Stiller, and while he is a terrific option, the Toons will be better off with Chelsea’s Andrey Santos.

Per reports, the Geordies are on the trail of the Brazilian holding midfielder, who could be on his way out this summer in search of playing time.

Santos joined from Brazil in January 2023 and has garnered Premier League experience (including a spell at Nottingham Forest), but it was at Strasbourg he truly showed his ability.

The 22-year-old Newcastle target is a strong, progressive midfielder who wins the ball back aggressively, snapping at ankles with meaty tackles.

He also has the vision to punch the ball through the lines with smart one-touch play, making him an excellent player on both sides of the ball.

He is the perfect, modern number six that the Magpies need in the centre of the park.

The fact that he has not received more opportunities to shine in the Premier League is an injustice, and so is the fact that he is on the way out before duds like Romeo Lavia.

Lauded as a ‘soldier‘ by Liam Rosenior, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe would absolutely appreciate Santos’ high-octane style of play.

He can grow into a world-beater under the English tactician, maturing into the special midfielder he has been touted to become for years.

A £50 million price tag has been slapped on the former Vasco da Gama midfielder, but Newcastle need to try to get them to come down on that price.

As always, Newcastle also need to be looking over their shoulders with Manchester United eyeing the player at a lesser price.