Arsenal are tracking Atletico Mineiro’s 18-year-old attacking midfielder Alisson Santana in anticipation of a possible summer transfer, according to reports.
Santana has only played 10 games for Atletico Mineiro's first team, but his performances in the club's youth teams have caught the attention of top European clubs.
Arsenal, Fulham, Newcastle United have all been connected to the player while German side Bayer Leverkusen and Dutch club PSV are also showing interest.
Two Spanish teams and one English team reportedly watched Santana in action on Saturday as he assisted a goal in a 3-0 victory over Ipatinga in Belo Horizonte.
It is believed that the English club was Arsenal – given that their new Brazilian scout Paulo Xavier lives in Belo Horizonte.
Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte report that Santana is under contract until 2027 which includes a €60m (£51m) release clause.
Arsenal are thought to be keen to recruit a new midfielder in the summer transfer window at the end of the season.
The Gunners are also looking for a new winger and a striker to strengthen their squad.
Arsenal have been connected to Wolves winger Pedro Neto but are hesitant to pay his £80m asking price.
The north Londoners are considering a number of strikers including Ivan Toney, Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres and Joshua Zirkzee.
