EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle, AC Milan, and Benfica held summer talks for Southampton youngster

Updated: 28 Sept 2023 13:42 BST
3 min read

Eddie Howe, Newcastle, 2022/23 — © ProShots

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe remains an admirer of Carlos Alcaraz and his side had held talks with the 20-year-old over a summer move, FootballTransfers has been told.

The Southampton midfielder was under consideration by Eddie Howe over the previous window while Benfica and AC Milan also had talks, with both European clubs registering a firm interest in their long-term target.

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Newcastle made an approach to the player's side but were eventually put off by Southampton's £30million asking price - but there remains a hope that the Magpies will revisit a deal in the January window.

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The youngster impressed the Newcastle head coach when he played on the left-side of a midfield three during the Saints’ 2-1 loss to the club at St James’ Park in January, and also when he also featured in Southampton’s 3-1 defeat to the Howe's side in April in the northeast, playing as an inside forward.

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Alcaraz joined Southampton in January from Racing Club for £12m in the January transfer window and featured in 18 Premier League appearances, netting four goals and providing two assists.

The Saints player has played in six Championship games so far this campaign, though the southern side have been struggling so far this term, sitting in 15th place in the table.

Alcaraz came to prominence in Argentina, when he debuted for Racing Club at the age of 17 in 2020. The midfielder played 83 games for the club and was a key proponent in their runners-up showing in the Primera Division last year.

Alcaraz on joining Southampton

© ProShots - Carlos Alcaraz has huge potential

Alcaraz said of joining Southampton earlier this month: "I'm very happy to be becoming part of this club.

"I knew that it would be a new challenge for me and for my career, so I wanted to take that, knowing that I would be joining a great club.

"I can't wait to get started training and playing, and I'm ready to give 100 per cent for this club, for this shirt. I'm looking forward to meeting all my teammates, and I'm ready to give it my all."