Newcastle hold off 'serious competition' to sign Martinez

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Newcastle United have held off "serious competition from leading clubs across Europe" to sign 16-year-old winger Johan Martinez.

The Ecuadorian will officially join the club from Independiente del Valle in the summer of 2027 following his 18th birthday.

Martinez, who is currently preparing to face Argentina in the semi-finals of the South American under-17 championships, will remain in his homeland until then.

The move marks a shift in global strategy for Newcastle as the club's recruitment network continues to widen after the appointment of sporting director Ross Wilson last summer.

"We're delighted to beat off serious competition from leading clubs across Europe to bring Johan to Newcastle United," he said.

"Identifying and recruiting promising young players is a key part of how we build for the future, and our scouting and recruitment teams have worked diligently to secure Johan's signature.

"Independiente del Valle have a strong reputation for developing young players and Johan has undoubtedly benefited from that environment.

"He will continue his progress there while we maintain a close connection with his development, and we look forward to welcoming him to Newcastle next year."