Manchester City are following the situation of Santos wonderkid Alison Matheus, Sport Witness has learned.
The Premier League side have been monitoring the striker’s development with the Brazilian side’s academy, and got in touch with those representing him to find out about the possibility of a move.
Alison Matheus turned 16 years of age in February, and had an impressive record with the U15 squad. The local media highlight the fact that he’s scored more goals than the likes of Neymar, Gabigol and Rodrygo at this age.
Given the Santos tradition of bringing through young stars, the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid started keeping their eye on him.
The striker is still to agree his first professional contract with the Brazilian giants, and due to the lack of an agreement so far, the possibility of a free transfer is real.
Santos have the priority for his first professional deal, but they’re offering a very low salary, while others of his age make up to six times more.
“We expected a better appreciation from Santos. Last year he had great performance, with excellent numbers. Our intention is to stay at the club, as long as he is valued,” says his father Ed Carlos.
At this stage, the interested clubs would have to make a personal offer. Santos would have the chance to match it, and in case they don’t, then the player could sign elsewhere for free.
Manchester City could only bring Alison Matheus to England once he’d turned 18 years of age, so if they signed him now they’d have to find a solution for the period between now and February 2022, and also work out how to approach the work permit situation.
Given the City Football Group, they’re better placed than others to manage such situations, and able to place players at sister clubs until they’re ready for the big time.
