Arsenal are hoping to steal a march on Real Madrid by tempting Cruzeiro midfielder Lucas Silva to the Emirates Stadium.
The 21-year-old, who has just won a Brazilian league title with his club, is a target for the Spanish giants but Gunners’ boss Arsene Wenger has already reportedly sent scouts to South America to check him out.
According to The Sun, the Premier League giants are ready to meet Cruzeiro’s asking price of around €15m for Lucas, although it is understood he would prefer a move to Real Madrid.
Lucas Rocha, the player’s agent, says Madrid have not yet made up their minds about his signature, despite already informing Cruzeiro they would be prepared to offer €12m.
The Madrid board are believed to see Lucas as someone with huge potential, yet may be willing to wait until the end of the season before making a final decision, something which could see Arsenal attempt to hijack any agreement.
