Boca Juniors star who Lionel Messi’s father loves could seriously consider a move to Newcastle United

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Sporting director Paul Mitchell is keen on implementing his new transfer plan at Newcastle United.

There’s been a mentality shift on Tyneside in recent months. It’s not just on the pitch either. Mitchell has overhauled Newcastle’s transfer strategy to prioritise signing younger players from overseas.

The plan has already been put into motion – Newcastle will confirm Kyle Fitzgerald’s signing later in January. The 17-year-old joins from Galway United in the League of Ireland Premier Division.

Mitchell endured a tough summer transfer window after joining the club in July, Newcastle’s rejected bids for Crystal Palace man Marc Guehi weren’t a good start to his life on Tyneside. Even Alan Shearer criticised Mitchell for his failings.

The Magpies have also kept a keen eye on stars domestically, Newcastle are interested in Millwall’s Romain Esse but he now looks bound for Palace.

Fans may now see another new face join Newcastle in January with reports in Argentina suggesting the Magpies are eyeing a move for a Boca Juniors star.

Newcastle retain interest in Kevin Zenon

Kevin Zenon has been on Newcastle’s radar since the summer. The 23-year-old signed for Boca Juniors in January 2024 and was a big part of their squad last season.

The Argentine made 46 appearances in all competitions, scoring six and bagging seven assists.

According to Epoca, Newcastle are interested in signing Zenon following a strong season in Argentina but faces competition from La Liga side Atletico Madrid for his signature.

Zenon initially caught the eye of Jorge Messi, father to Lionel who recommended him to Union Sante Fe in the Argentine Primera División – he would break into their first-team aged 19.

The report suggests that Newcastle’s interest has created a “wave of concern” amongst Boca Juniors fans who believe one of their key players could soon move abroad.

However, the report states that it’s down to Zenon to decide the next step of his career but Newcastle’s history could make him seriously consider a move to the North East of England.

Newcastle don’t need Kevin Zenon

Although Zenon has been linked with a move to Tyneside, Newcastle aren’t in a position where they are desperate for a player like him.

Zenon is predominantly a left-sided player – in most games for Boca Juniors, he has played as a left midfielder. Newcastle are prioritising a right winger in January so signing Zenon isn’t a necessity for Howe.

A small silver lining is that Zenon has played as a central midfielder at times this season – again, not a position Newcastle need to improve, but there would be more depth if need be.

It would be a struggle for Zenon to make it into Newcastle’s first-team squad with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes the more favourable options on the left side of attack.