Chelsea and West Ham United have reportedly leapfrogged Manchester United in the race for teenage forward Luis Guilherme.
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United have been linked with the Brazilian forward in the last few weeks but it seems the two London outfits are favourites for the player.
The attacking midfielder, who is just 17 years of age, will have to wait until he turns 18 before moving to Europe.
The report from PL Brazil, a Brazilian outlet, states that Chelsea and West Ham have the upper hand as they have held meetings with Luis Guilherme and his representatives about a move, something that United, as of yet, have not done.
Guilherme’s winter move
According to the report, United are near the back of the queue for his signature as the race heats up to sign the teenage sensation.
Guilherme will not come cheap, however. He has a £52m release clause in his Palmeiras contract and it’s possible that one of his suitors will have to match that fee to sign him in January.
This is a huge price for a teenager who is unproven in the Premier League, but if Guilherme lives up to his potential, he will be worth every penny.
It remains to be seen if United make their move for the teenager but are certainly interested in the Palmeiras midfielder.
United’s plan
According to the report, despite United not yet making a move, they will wait to see how the under-17 World Cup plays out to see if any other young talent comes to the fore.
If that isn’t the case, it seems likely United will make their move for Guilherme but it seems unlikely they would pay the rather steep release clause in the teenager’s contract.
Even if United miss out on Guilherme, they would certainly be going in the right direction.
By trying to target players before their values increase, they will pick up some bargain signings that could turn out to be stars in the future.
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