Man Utd and Arsenal face January transfer dispute over Santos sensation Leonardo as agent says ‘the time has come’
MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal will battle it out for Santos prodigy Marcos Leonardo.
The 20-year-old has caught the attention of Europe’s elite with his performances in Brazil.
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His former teammates Angelo Gabriel and Deivid Washington moved to Chelsea in the summer.
Striker Leonardo decided to stay until the end of the Brazilian national season, which ends in December.
But with Man Utd and Arsenal in the fold, his representative has admitted his days at Santos are numbered.
Regarding the future of her client, advisor Rafaela Pimenta said: “He already had the opportunity to be sold in the previous transfer market, but Santos’ sporting situation was very special.”
“He agreed to stay because he wanted to help out until the end of the championship.
“He didn’t want to leave because it wasn’t the right thing to do.
“But it’s time to move. He wants to have a European experience and his time will come this winter.”
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag is expected to be joined by Sir Jim Ratcliffe once the British billionaire’s partial takeover is completed.
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While the Gunners could target strengthened strikers given Gabriel Jesus’ ongoing injury problems.
As well as Man Utd and Arsenal, Newcastle and Roma are also interested in signing the Brazilian U20 star.
Despite his young age, Leonardo has already played 164 games for Santos in all competitions.
He has scored 54 goals and provided 11 assists.
