Newcastle United agree five-year deal as forward issues emotional goodbye message
Newcastle United are poised to complete the signing of highly-rated Spanish winger Antonio Cordero, with the 18-year-old agreeing to a five-year contract that will begin once his current deal with Málaga CF officially expires on June 30. The Magpies have managed to beat out fierce competition from Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid and Barcelona to secure the teenager’s coveted signature.
Cordero, one of Spain’s most exciting young prospects, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Málaga in the Segunda División, impressing scouts across Europe with his flair, intelligence, and productivity in the final third. During the 2024–25 season, he racked up seven goals and six assists in 40 appearances across all competitions — an outstanding return for a player so early in his professional career.
However, what makes Cordero particularly appealing to Newcastle is not just his eye-catching numbers, but the fact that he has already amassed considerable senior-level experience at just 18 years of age. The club views him as a high-upside long-term investment, with plans to integrate him into their senior setup over time. Nevertheless, sources suggest that the young winger will likely be loaned out for the 2025–26 season to gain further experience and consistent first-team minutes.
Málaga Confirm Departure in Club Statement
On Monday afternoon, Málaga CF confirmed Cordero’s impending exit in an official statement posted to the club’s website and social media platforms. The message thanked the player for his contributions and acknowledged his decision to leave as a free agent upon the expiration of his contract.
“Antoñito Cordero will end his time at Málaga Club de Fútbol when his contract expires on June 30, 2025,” the club wrote.
“Through his representation agency, the player from Jerez de la Frontera has announced his decision not to renew with our club. Good luck, Antonio.”
Cordero’s decision to depart has undoubtedly left a void at the club, where he has grown and flourished since his early teenage years.
A Heartfelt Goodbye from Cordero
Shortly after Málaga confirmed his departure, Cordero took to Instagram to express his gratitude and bid an emotional farewell to the club and its supporters. Having signed his first professional contract at just 16, Cordero went on to make 79 appearances across both Málaga’s senior and B teams, scoring a total of 19 goals during his time at the club.
“Dear Málaga family,” Cordero wrote. “The day I never wanted to arrive is finally here. It’s time to say goodbye to all of you who, since day one, welcomed me as one of your own.
“These are memories I will cherish forever. We gave it everything, but due to circumstances beyond my control, this chapter has to end. I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who helped make my dream of playing for this great club a reality.
“A special thank you to our amazing fans — your support meant the world to us, through good times and bad. I hope one day our paths cross again.
“I love you, Málaga ❤️ – Antoñito Cordero.”
Newcastle’s Youth Project Continues Under Eddie Howe
Antonio Cordero isn’t the only young talent headed to Tyneside. Newcastle are also set to welcome Vakhtang Salia, a promising midfielder from Dinamo Tbilisi, who will officially join the club after turning 18 in August. Both signings are part of Newcastle’s continued investment in youth, as the club looks to build not just for today, but for the long-term future.
Head coach Eddie Howe, when asked about the influx of youth talent, emphasized that while his primary focus remains on first-team matters, he fully supports the club’s approach to strengthening the youth ranks and creating opportunities for academy graduates.
“I primarily concentrate on players who are entering my first-team squad,” Howe said when questioned about the club’s youth recruitment. “The academy and development areas are handled by other people at the club who are best positioned to give those players the time, energy, and detail they deserve.
“That said, it’s incredibly important we continue to sign talented youngsters. It helps us build a strong foundation for the future, both competitively and financially. And it gives those young players a genuine chance to grow and one day make the step up.”
Howe has already shown his willingness to promote youth, with players like Lewis Miley breaking into the senior squad and impressing. He remains open to seeing more youngsters follow that path, including recent additions like Cordero and Salia.
“There’s definitely a clear pathway in place,” Howe added. “All the players in our academy should know that if they work hard and perform, opportunities will come.
“Right now, we have players like Sean Neave and Leo Shahar regularly training with the first team, and they’re doing exceptionally well. We’re very pleased with their progress. The door is open — we want our youth players to feel encouraged and inspired.”
As Newcastle continues to evolve under the leadership of Eddie Howe and the ownership’s ambitious project, the signing of Antonio Cordero signals not just a nod to the future, but a commitment to sustainable success through the development of elite young talent.