Manchester United have been linked with a move for Brazilian sensation Matheus Martinelli.
Globo Esporte report Manchester United have sent scouts to watch him in action.
The youngster is no relation to Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli.
So what else can we tell you about the possible Red Devils signing?
1) Martinelli, 19, plays as a central midfielder for Brazilian top flight side Fluminense.
2) After making his debut last November, Martinelli has 13 first team appearances for Fluminense and has scored three goals and provided two assists.
3) He is under contract until 2024. Globo Esporte report he has a release clause of 40m Euros (£34.6m).
4) In Brazil he is nicknamed ‘Xavinelli’ after Barcelona legend Xavi, due to his style of play.
5) Martinelli has a dual Brazilian and Italian citizenship, although this will no longer assist with a work permit due to Brexit rules. As he between 8 and 21, United could sign him as an ‘elite talent’ in the same way approval was given to sign Amad.
What they say…
Former coach Marcao told Lance!: “Martinelli seems to be 30 years old, with such personality and a game read.”
What he says…
Asked about comparisons to Xavi, Martinelli told Globo Esporte: “I was very happy when I saw it on Twitter. (Xavi) He is an idol, he has nothing to say, he was a great player. I am very happy with this comparison. I’ll try to follow in his footsteps.”
Speaking to Esporte News Mundo, he said: “It is the dream of every player to go to Europe, but there is still a lot of work to do this season. When the proposals arrive, players must sit down with their clibs to see what’s best for both of them.”
Would he be a good signing?
United could take a gamble if the club are convinced, but £34.6 million is a lot of money to lay out for a player with limited experience.
The club have committed a similar amount to sign Amad, but half of this is made up of add-ons, decreasing the risk.
For the amount required to sign Martinelli, United could potentially sign Brighton’s Yves Bissouma for just £5-10 million more, who would be a more Premier League proven option for the first team to contribute right away.
What it comes down to here is scouting and talent assessment. If United genuinely believe Matheus Martinelli can become one of the world’s best footballers over the next decade, then he is worth taking a chance on.
If the club’s scouts aren’t quite convinced, then expect money to be invested elsewhere.
United don’t often buy directly from South America. The deal to sign Facundo Pellistri, at a fraction of the price, was the first signing from the continent in seven years.
This one appears to be a long shot, but if the scouting reports come back really positive, then United may be tempted, if there is money to spare at the end of the window like with Amad.
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