Newcastle United officially complete first summer signing – another set to follow as personal terms agreed
Antonio Cordero Officially Joins Newcastle United Amid High Hopes and Loan Plans
Antonio Cordero is now officially a Newcastle United player, completing his much-anticipated switch to Tyneside following the expiration of his contract at Spanish club Malaga. The Premier League outfit had initially announced on June 5 that a deal was in place to bring the highly-rated teenager to St James’ Park, and as of July 1, the move is now formally completed.
Cordero, 18, chose not to renew his contract with Malaga, despite being offered improved terms. His decision sparked widespread interest across Europe, with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly keen on securing his signature. However, the talented winger opted for Newcastle, believing the club provided the perfect environment to continue his development and take the next step in his burgeoning career.
The young Spaniard arrives in England following a breakthrough season with Malaga in the Spanish second division, where he made an impressive 40 appearances, scoring six goals and registering seven assists. His performances were pivotal for Malaga throughout the campaign, and his reputation was further enhanced by his international exploits with Spain’s under-19 team. Cordero played a crucial role in helping his country reach the final of the UEFA U-19 European Championship, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to the Netherlands.
Club Statement Confirms Arrival
Newcastle United released a formal statement confirming the move and outlining the necessary procedural steps before Cordero can be fully integrated into the squad. The statement read:
> “Newcastle United will sign promising Spanish winger Antonio Cordero on 1st July following the expiry of his contract with Spanish side Malaga. The transfer is subject to completion of the registration process with the Premier League and the Football Association, as well as obtaining a UK visa.”
In his first words as a Newcastle player, Cordero expressed his excitement and ambition:
> “It’s truly an honour to be here, truly a pleasure. I am a person who likes to aspire high. Why not come to one of the best places in the world to do it? It’s a big step, and that’s one of the reasons I’m here. I’m happy to do it and have a great desire to get going already.”
Immediate Loan Move Expected as Ajax Circle
Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Cordero is not expected to be integrated into Eddie Howe’s senior squad right away. Instead, Newcastle plan to loan the winger out for the upcoming season to gain valuable experience in top-level European football. Dutch powerhouse Ajax are currently leading the race to secure his services on a temporary basis, with other clubs also expressing interest.
Paul Mitchell, who recently departed from his position as Newcastle’s sporting director, commented on the club’s plans for Cordero before his exit:
> “Antonio is an exciting talent. We’re delighted to bring him to Newcastle United amidst interest in Spain and across Europe. He has lots of potential, and the next phase of his development will be for the club to select a loan move that will challenge him and build on his experiences.”
James Trafford Deal Close to Completion
Meanwhile, Newcastle United are also working to finalise another key piece of summer business. Talks are progressing well with Burnley over the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford, who is set to become the club’s first major signing of the summer window.
The 21-year-old England youth international was on Newcastle’s radar last year, but the Magpies pulled out of the deal when they opted to sign Greek shot-stopper Odysseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest as part of a Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) workaround involving the transfer of Elliot Anderson.
However, the club have continued to monitor Trafford closely, and his outstanding form last season has only strengthened their interest. Trafford was instrumental in Burnley’s immediate return to the Premier League, registering a staggering 29 clean sheets and conceding just 16 goals across the season.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, personal terms have already been agreed between Trafford and Newcastle, with only “final details” left to be sorted between the two clubs before the move is confirmed.
With Cordero’s signing complete and the Trafford deal nearing conclusion, Newcastle’s summer business is starting to take shape as they look to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts in the upcoming campaign.