Man Utd and Arsenal set for January transfer scrap over Santos sensation Leonardo as agent says ‘the time has come’
MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal are set to battle for Santos wonderkid Marcos Leonardo.
The 20-year-old has caught the eye of Europe’s elite with his performances in Brazil.
His former team-mates Angelo Gabriel and Deivid Washington moved to Chelsea in the summer.
Striker Leonardo opted to stay until the end of the Brazilian domestic season, which concludes in December.
But with Man Utd and Arsenal circling, his representative has admitted that his days at Santos are numbered.
On her client’s future, agent Rafaela Pimenta said: “Already in the previous transfer market he had the possibility of being sold, but Santos’ sporting situation was very particular.
“He agreed to stay because he wanted to help out until the end of the championship.
“He didn’t want to leave because it wasn’t the right thing to do.
“But the time has come to move. He wants to have a European experience and his time will come this winter.”
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag is set to be backed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, when the British billionaire’s partial takeover is completed.
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While the Gunners could target forward reinforcements amid Gabriel Jesus‘ persistent injury woes.
In addition to Man Utd and Arsenal, Newcastle and Roma are keen to sign the Brazil Under-20 star.
Leonardo has already made 164 appearances for Santos in all competitions, despite his tender years.
He has netted 54 goals, while also laying on 11 assists.