Newcastle pick Santiago Hezze transfer as Argentine star impresses at Olympics

NEWCASTLE are reportedly preparing a transfer for Olympiacos star Santiago Hezze, following his impressive performances for Argentina at the Olympic Games.

Hezze, 22, is a defensive midfielder and the cousin of four-time Argentina international Antonio Mohamed.

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After making 124 appearances for his boyhood club Huracan, Hezze moved to Greek giants Olympiacos last summer and led the club to the Europa Conference League title with 50 appearances in all competitions.

The youngster was then called up by Argentina for the Olympic Games in Paris. Hezze started the first two group matches and came on as a substitute in the third match.

He was also a substitute in the quarter-final against France.

And Hezze’s impressive rise has now also caught the attention of Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.

TyC Sports claims that Toon wants a midfield reinforcement before next week’s transfer deadline.

They are currently preparing a bid for Hezze, which would see him become St James’ Park’s latest signing.

Newcastle say they have had a relatively quiet transfer window, with free throws for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly and Birmingham goalkeeper John Ruddy.

Howe has also signed Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos and Sheffield United striker William Osula and made the loan of Lewis Hall from Chelsea permanent.

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But he hopes to sign another key defender in the person of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.

Newcastle have already rejected four bids for the English centre-back.

They have requested information about Chelsea’s Axel Disasi and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba, among others.

However, Newcastle could still return with a fifth bid for Guehi, who is keen to move to the north-east.

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