Brazilian attacking midfielder confirms he has signed pro contract with Newcastle United

Newcastle United have handed a professional contract to 15-year-old attacking midfielder Matheos Ferreira.

Ferreira - born in Berwick Upon Tweed - was a talented jiu-jitsu student before turning his attention to football. He joined the Magpies’ academy aged 12 and has quickly advanced through the age groups having played for the under-18s on 17 occasions last season.

As reported by Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte: “This Thursday, he signed his first professional contract with Newcastle at the club's headquarters, which will have a first version until August next year, when he will turn 17 and will then be officially validated.”

And speaking about his pro contract, Ferreira told the same publication: “I just want to keep playing, be the best version of myself. The most important thing is that I want the best for my family, a better life, to be the best I can, without comparing myself to anyone. Just be myself and keep progressing.

“You have to be patient, because the time will come. It's how much you want it, how much you're willing to wait and sacrifice. The opportunity will appear. Just keep training, wait for the right moment and seize the opportunity when it comes.”

Ferreira has represented England at under-15s level but also holds a Brazilian nationality. He is also in the process of obtaining an Italian passport due to his mother's origins. On his international allegiances, Ferreira added: “I play for whoever gives me the opportunity, but I want to practice my Portuguese more, my Portuguese is bad now, I want to study more. I like Brazil, I went there last year, I played a lot of footvolley, the people are good, happy, I really like the energy.