Gabriel Barbosa, dubbed as the ‘new Neymar’, has been attracting interest from big name clubs following a breakthrough season two years ago in Brazil for Santos. The first offer came from Turkish giants, Fenerbahçe, for €20m, which was rejected.
The forward, 19, has a release clause of €40m, but the Express state €24m is enough to secure his signature.
Barbosa’s contract is set to expire in 18 months, and the likes of English clubs Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal are believed to be ready to pounce on the skillful Brazilian.
Gabriel, also known as ‘Gabigol’, made his senior debut at only 16. He’s gone on to appear for Santos 60 times, scoring on 14 occasions. He’s also been capped for U20 Brazil team.
German outfit VFL Wolfsburg have also hinted interest in signing the talented youngster, but it is Catalan giants, Barcelona, leading the race.
Barcelona signed Neymar from Santos in 2013. Unfortunately for Arsenal, Barca were able to secure a first-rights clause for Gabriel in the deal, which means Arsene Wenger will have a tough time bringing the starlet to north London, unless he really coughs up the cash for the 18-year-old.
