Newcastle United considering move for Brazilian prodigy Marcos Leonardo

Magpies are looking to find Sandro Tonalo's replacement after ban on Italian for betting

Before the January transfer window opens, Newcastle United are exploring steps to sign Santos star Marcos Leonardo.

Wonderkid from Santos Newcastle United are currently interested in Marcos Leonardo, and preliminary discussions are underway.

In line with a report from UOL Esporte, Newcastle has reportedly "started the first contacts" in an attempt to recruit Leonardo.

When the January transfer window opens, the Magpies aren't anticipated to make big moves in the transfer market.

Following Sandro Tonali's suspension, Newcastle might choose a different midfielder, but they might also try to sign an explosive player. According to UOL Esporte, Newcastle have begun making moves to sign Santos star Marcos Leonardo.

It's been reported that the Magpies have contacted the Brazilian in an attempt to get his signature as a first step.

According to the article, Santos knows about the connections and is now hoping for a sale of up to €25 million (£22 million).

Newcastle are at least exploring a deal, though it is unclear if they would be willing to pay that kind of sum. Leonardo was coveted by West Ham in August, but no trade was reached; however, Football Transfers reports that Arsenal had watched him.

Now, Newcastle could use the opportunity to bring Leonardo, along with fellow countrymen Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, to Tyneside.

Leonardo, a forward by trade, is only 20 years old and has already participated in 161 first-team games for Santos, hitting 54 goals.

Tim Vickery, a South American football analyst, has drawn analogies between excellent goalscoring statistics and Sergio Aguero.

Leonardo debuted for the Brazilian Under-20 team in September and has scored seven goals in seven games.

Leonardo is an intriguing young attacker who has a bright future ahead of him. At Newcastle, he might be seen as a youngster to develop under Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.