Manchester United is reportedly contemplating a double transfer swoop for two Brazilian wonderkids, potentially costing the club up to £100m.
The club already boasts several skilled South American players such as Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri, and it appears they are exploring the addition of more international talent to Erik ten Hag’s squad.
According to theDaily Mail, United scouts recently travelled to South America, where they were impressed by two 17-year-old Brazilians.
Palmeiras midfielder Luis Guilherme and Flamengo’s Lorran, also a midfielder, are reported to have caught the eye of the United scouts.
Guilherme is a Brazil U20 international and has become a regular in Palmeiras’ first team, making 23 appearances in all competitions this season.
Lorran has had far less first-team football for his club side Flamengo, making only four senior appearances, but he has already starred for Brazil’s U17 side.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed United’s interest in the pair but claims Ten Hag’s side could face competition for their signatures from several European clubs – including Chelsea.
Romano said on hisYouTube channel: “Keep an eye also on Manchester United in South America because in recent weeks Manchester United, as I told you, sent their scouts, as well as Chelsea, to follow Lorran from Flamengo, this talented Brazilian boy.
“Man Utd scouts were in attendance to follow this player. But from what I’m hearing, there is also one more player being monitored by Manchester United.
“This is Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras, one more Brazilian talent. Someone from Manchester United’s scouting department is travelling around Brazil to keep an eye on these players.
“Let’s see what is going to happen because, for example, on Luis Guilherme there are more than five important European clubs – from Germany, from England, from different countries – so, work in progress on that one. But let’s see what Man Utd will decide to do because they are scouting many players also in South America.”
If United are to land the pair, they may have to pay nearly £100m.
Mundo Deportivohave reported that Guilherme has a £52m release clause in his contract, while Lorran has similar £43m clause.
It is unlikely United would be willing to pay such fees for unproven talents, although the success of the likes of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo – who moved to Real Madrid for similar fees while still teenagers – may convince the English club to submit sizeable offers.