‘Willing to bid hard’ – Arsenal keen on securing signing, set for transfer tussle with Euro giants

Arsenal are among the clubs chasing Palmeiras youngster Estevão Willian, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The 16-year-old has been on the agenda of several top clubs despite making only one senior appearance for Palmeiras so far. He will only be able to arrive in Europe after he turns 18 years of age in 2025.

That hasn’t stopped Arsenal or other interested parties from trying to agree a deal for his transfer.

Mikel Arteta’s side are keen on signing the winger and the report states they are ‘willing to bid hard’.

Mundo state Barcelona scouts have closely watched Estevão in action for Brazil at the U17 World Cup in Indonesia last November, where he managed three goals and three assists from five games.

His displays [four goals and two assists form five matches] for the Palmeiras U20 at La Copinha this month has also pleased the La Liga side. It’s claimed Barca are determined to make an approach for Estevão, after receiving an approval from their board.

Estevão favours a move to the Camp Nou and it gives Barca an advantage in the transfer race. Arsenal, for their part, are willing to bid hard and seem to be ready to battle it out with the Spanish giants.

Earlier claims have stated Estevão has a €60m clause and taking Barca’s financial conditions into account, it needs to be seen if they can offer this amount to conclude the operation.