Arsenal are interested in Brazil’s next wunderkind, Reinier Jesus, who currently plays for Flamengo in the Brazilian league. Reinier, all of 17, made his senior debut for Flamengo earlier this year, and has made a strong impression already.
Mundo Deportivo (via Metro) reported that Arsenal have spoken to Reinier’s father and expressed interest in signing him. Several of Europe’s elite clubs are keen on signing the 17-year-old midfielder, including the likes of Manchester City, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and PSG.
The teenager signed a new contract with Flamengo earlier this year, which will tie him to the club till 2024, with his release clause now set at £60 million.
A report by Football.London claims that Flamengo wanted around £17 million for Reinier in the summer transfer window, but the price may have doubled now.
Reinier made his senior debut earlier this year for Flamengo and he has gone on to make 13 appearances for the club, scoring 4 goals and 2 assists.
What will Reinier Jesus add to the Arsenal side?
Reinier is an attacking midfielder who has technique, vision, and dribbling ability in abundance. The teenager can play as an attacking midfielder or central midfielder, as well as false 9. His primary position is that of a play-maker, playing behind the striker and linking up midfield and attack.
The 17-year-old often drops deep to pick up the ball from midfield to slalom past defenders with his exceptional dribbling ability and pace.
His playing style is similar to another Brazilian, Kaka, who drifted past players with ease in his prime. Reinier seems to have a little more pace than the former AC Milan star, while also having the typical Brazilian flair.
At 6’1″, Reinier is a tall player for an attacking midfielder, and he uses his big frame to push away defenders and shield the ball well. He is a player that has phenomenal ability and potential, and could actually make it into the current Arsenal team on current form.
Reinier should be a player that the Gunners pursue closely, if they can convince the teenager to join them instead of the other big heavyweights who are interested in signing him as well.