Newcastle fans will love what Cafu said about Danilo as price tag revealed
Newcastle United’s desperate need for a new midfielder has led them in the direction of Danilo this summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old currently plays for Brazilian side Botafogo and is reportedly valued at £25million.
After previously struggling at Nottingham Forest, Danilo has hit form in his home nation, which resulted in him being called up for the 2026 World Cup.
Since making his Brazil debut in early 2026, he has picked up eight caps and scored twice for his country.
While he was not a starter at the World Cup, he still managed to make four appearances as the South American nation crashed out in the round of 16.
Despite these limited minutes, Brazil legend Cafu was quick to praise the midfielder in the tournament as he highlighted the impact he has both in attack and defence.
Cafu: Danilo has been a standout player for Brazil
Since moving back to Brazil last summer, Danilo’s career has got back on track.
In the 2026 campaign alone, he has netted 10 goals in 24 appearances for Botafogo, which helped him earn the call-up for the Brazil squad.
In the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, he netted in friendlies against both Croatia and Panama as he showcased his ability.
As a result, early into the World Cup, Cafu was quick to highlight Danilo’s importance to Romario TV on 17 June.
“But I’ll tell you, Danilo has been standing out,” Cafu explained.
“In the friendly games he played, Danilo scored goals. Danilo, he’s a guy, he attacks, he defends with the same strength, he plays, he has a vision for the game.”
As a result, Newcastle fans will be excited by these comments. For the midfielder to be so heavily praised by a football legend is a good indicator of the quality he has.
Therefore, if Chronicle Live’s report is correct, and the Magpies are interested in Danilo this summer, the club could be about to secure a potential bargain.
How good is Danilo?
According to Fotmob on 20 July, Danilo has produced some excellent stats in the Serie A during the 2026 campaign.
As it stands, he is averaging 0.59 goals, a 0.16 xG, 2.35 shots, 0.17 assists, 1.85 chances created, 2.77 touches in the opposition box and 5.21 recoveries per 90 minutes.
Therefore, the midfielder could provide a significant attacking threat to Eddie Howe's side next season if they are able to get a deal over the line.
However, it remains to be seen if the 25-year-old has the ability to replicate and improve upon these stats in the Premier League if a deal is completed to bring him to St James’ Park.