Luiz Gustavo Roncholeta Benedetti, the 19-year-old centre-back from Palmeiras, is attracting serious attention from Europe with Arsenal and Barcelona both tracking his progress.
Benedetti only made his senior debut in January but has already played 18 times this season, scoring twice. At 1.97m, left-footed, and comfortable on the ball, he fits the mould of defender European clubs covet.
He recently signed a contract running until 2029, which ensures Palmeiras will demand a significant fee, even though he is currently only valued at around €1m.
Reports in São Paulo suggest interest from Arsenal is well known inside the club, with journalist Diego Firmino confirming scouts have followed him closely. Gustavo Soler also reported that one unnamed European side was preparing an offer in the region of £8.5m plus bonuses, but that was before the window closed and no move happened.
Benedetti is currently fifth choice under Abel Ferreira, but that status, coupled with his potential, is exactly the type of profile Arsenal are looking for: a player who can develop without the immediate expectation of starting every week.
Barcelona are also weighing up their position, while Napoli’s interest is tempered by financial constraints.
No bid has yet been made by Arsenal, but there is a sense they may act before his value rises further. For now, Benedetti remains part of Palmeiras’ senior squad and is expected to feature for Brazil’s U20s, yet the growing interest from Europe suggests his next step may not be far away.