Newcastle United launch genius move for free agent as Everton swoop for wonderkid

Aston Villa are ‘intrigued’ by the prospect of signing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams - according to reports in Spain.

The ten-times capped Spanish international is enjoying another promising season with the La Liga club after scoring one goal and providing five assists in ten appearances in all competitions. He's continued last season’s form that saw the 21-year-old claimed 15 goal contributions in 43 league and cup games.

His potential has led to reported interest from Newcastle United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich - but Spanish outlet Sport have claimed Villa are ready to make a move in January and are willing to pay a ‘reasonable’ fee for a player that will be in the final six months of his current deal.

The 3AM Verdict: “Williams has become one of the most exciting attacking players in a league full of promising talent. The calibre of clubs said to be watching him is an indicated of the undoubted potential and ability he possesses and Villa will do well to steal a march on a number of Champions League clubs to secure his signature.”

Everton eye German wonderkid as Serie A duo contemplate move

Highly-rated Borussia Monchengladbach forward Winsley Boteli is said to be a target for Everton - but the Toffees will need to see off two high-profile rivals for his signature.

The 17-year-old Switzerland youth international has scored 12 goals in as many games for the Bundesliga club’s youth team this season and marked his first call-up to the Swiss Under-19 side with goals against Slovakia and the United States in September.

Fabrizio Romano recently revealed the Toffees are keeping a close eye on the striker’s progress and confirmed Juventus are also showing an interest. Inter Live have now suggested Inter are ‘closely monitoring Boteli with a view to making a possible move.

The 3AM Verdict: “Everton’s financial issues have been well versed but that could all change if the potential takeover of the club is given the go-ahead in the near future.  Whether it comes to fruition or not, the Toffees need a structure recruitment plan and making moves for some of European football’s brightest prospects could help them build.”

Magpies face Benitez competition for free agent

Rafa Benitez is well versed in being disappointed by Newcastle United - but it is not Mike Ashley that could leave the Spanish boss to rue his misfortune if a recent transfer report is to be believed.

TEAMtalk have reported former Braga and Lille star Xeka has been offered to the Magpies as a possible solution to the injury crisis that has robbed Eddie Howe of several key players in recent weeks. The 29-year-old has been without a club since he left Ligue 1 club Rennes at the end of last season and has been linked with a move to Crystal Palace, West Ham United and Aston Villa in recent months.

La Liga club Celta, where Benitez is now manager, have also been mentioned as a possible destination for the experienced midfielder - but the report suggests Newcastle are considering whether to offer Xeka a trial to assess his fitness.

The 3AM Verdict: “There is no doubt Newcastle need to make a move to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window as Sandro Tonali’s long-term ban and numerous injuries have limited Eddie Howe’s options.  However, there are more high-profile targets under discussion within the St. James' Park hierarchy and that means any move for Xeka seems unlikely.”