Newcastle United are making significant strides in their recruitment strategy, with the latest move bringing them closer to securing the signature of a highly-rated young Spaniard.

We are reportedly on the verge of securing a deal to get another exciting young player to move countries and be part of our long-term thinking as our recruitment strategy becomes clearer moving forward.

The latest rumoured addition, who is set to join the fold this summer according to reports, is a one to watch closely over the next few months – already boasting an impressive highlights package this season.

A closer look at Cordero in action

Newcastle United are on the brink of signing of highly-rated Malaga winger Antonio Cordero, as The Mail’s Craig Hope reported last week.

Hope has reported the 18-year-old is expected to make the move to Tyneside this summer on a free transfer, with a pre-contract agreement now nearing completion. Director of Football Paul Mitchell, apparently played a key role, hosting the player on Tyneside and holding talks  – putting Newcastle in pole position to beat the alleged interests of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Cordero has enjoyed an impressive season in La Liga 2, registering four goals and six assists in the Spanish Second Division as a dynamic attacking option. The starlet has earned a reputation as one of Spain’s brightest young talents, see for yourself below what the teenager can produce:

Another overseas gem heading to Tyneside

The Spaniard is set to be the latest overseas talent to make a switch to Tyneside as we continue to identify young gems with a view to building sustainably, a pre-contract agreement for Cordero is a no-brainer.

We were forced into the sale of Yankuba Minteh without seeing the Gambian in action after mismanaging our PSR deadline last summer, we have since signed Vakhtang Salia from Georgia and Turkish attacker Baran Yildiz to look forward to in the future – with a loan move in the summer the most likely option for Cordero.

Our recruitment strategy has evolved under the guidance of Mitchell, with Minteh the only one above who pre-dated him. The focus on youth development is low-risk with the potential for high-reward, either on terms of securing a fee or having a player develop into a first-team regular, and more promising youngsters can be expected over the coming years.