Arsenal are interested in signing Coritiba right-back Yan Couto, according to reports in the Brazilian media. Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be keen on the 17-year-old.
Technical director Edu was reportedly the architect behind the Gunners’ move for Gabriel Martinelli and it appears he is looking to repeat the trick by signing another young Brazilian.
Coritiba are reportedly demanding around €5m (£4.2m) for Couto, who recently starred for Brazil at the Under 17 World Cup. He played a key role by providing the assist for Lazaro’s winner in the final against Mexico last month.
The teenager will not be moving in the January transfer window, though, even if a deal is agreed. Much like with Martinelli, he will only be able to move once he turns 18.
With Couto’s birthday in early June, he would likely join ahead of next season. It remains to be seen, though, whether Arsenal will win the race for the young defender.