At one time, getting a Brazilian meant having a very close shave so-to-speak, but Newcastle United are hoping that’s a thing of the past with their interest in Brazilian Willian José.
According to The Chronicle Live, the Magpies are said to be interested in the 15-cap, five-goal Brazil Under-20 international who currently plies his trade in Spain’s La Liga competition with Real Sociedad.
The 25-year-old has made 22 appearances for Los Aceiteros this season, scoring nine La Liga goals in his first 21 games before suffering a muscular injury that kept him out for six games – only returning for the last two games against Leganes and Atletico Madrid.
Brazilian Willian José started his career in his homeland for Grêmio Barueri, moving to Uruguayan side Maldonado before entering European football via a series of loans to Spanish sides starting with La Liga giants Real Madrid – the Brazilian making 16 appearances (four goals) for Los Blancos’ reserve Castilla side and one 21 minute appearance for the first team against Celta Vigo.
His tour around the Spanish leagues saw him loaned to Real Zaragoza and Las Palmas before a £5.1 million permanent move from Maldonado to his current side was signed at the end of July 2016.
The Chronicle Live say that “according to reports” Toon boss Rafa Benitez is looking to add the Brazilian to the ranks once promotion back to the Premier League is confirmed, but also point out that Willian José is a much-wanted target.
They report that Everton boss Ronald Koeman is also considering a move for the Porto Calvo-born striker as a contingency should prolific striker Romelu Lukaku leave Goodison Park – Watford and Southampton also said to be keeping tabs on the Brazilian.
The Chronicle Live go on to say that a move for the nine-goal striker represents “serious intent” by Newcastle owner Mike Ashley with the Brazilian said to be valued in the £30 million bracket.
