Newcastle United are refusing to give up in the battle for Vasco da Gama youngster Andrey Santos.

Santos, 18, has emerged as a target for Newcastle ahead of a potential January move.

The Northern Echo says the central midfielder has been on the club's radar for some time.

Newcastle will face a battle to sign him with Barcelona also expressing an interest in the teenager.

However, the Spanish giants financial situation continues to strain them heavily, opening the door for Newcastle to swoop in if they can stay within the Premier League's Financial Fair Play regulations.

A transfer for Santos is in line with Newcastle's new transfer policy of trying to recruit the best talent around the World.