Brazil has always been a footballing hotbed, producing a conveyor belt of prodigious talent that dazzles scouts and clubs worldwide.
With Premier League teams expanding their scouting networks in South America, it’s no surprise that several of Brazil’s rising stars are making waves in conversations around potential transfers. Here, we explore the top nine Brazilian U23 players who are catching the eyes of English clubs.
Below Are the Top 9 Brazilian U23 Youngsters on Premier League Radars
1. Estevao (17, Palmeiras – Forward)
Already set to join Chelsea for £29 million next summer, Estevao is one of Brazil’s brightest young talents. Having earned three senior caps for his country at just 17, his quick feet and knack for finding the back of the net have earned comparisons to past Brazilian greats. Estevao is poised to light up Stamford Bridge, and the excitement around his arrival is palpable. Will he deliver on the hype when he finally arrives? We'll have to wait and see.
2. Breno Bidon (19, Corinthians – Central Midfielder)
Corinthians’ midfield maestro is in his debut professional season but already commands respect on the pitch. With over 38 appearances this year, Bidon combines vision, passing, and an innate ability to dictate the tempo. Newcastle, Wolves, and Aston Villa are reportedly circling, although his £85 million release clause makes him a high-stakes gamble.
3. Kaua Elias (18, Fluminense – Forward)
Elias has had a breakout season, scoring seven goals and assisting two in 38 matches. Raised by his grandfather, who motivated him with small monetary rewards per goal in his youth, Elias has blossomed into a £70 million-rated starlet.
Premier League sides Brighton, Chelsea, and Manchester United are keeping a close watch on the forward, who dreams of gracing the big stages of La Liga or the Premier League. What sets him apart from other young forwards making their mark in Brazil? Unlike many peers, his ability to deliver in clutch moments under pressure, even at a young age, is truly remarkable.
4. Vitor Reis (18, Palmeiras – Centre Back)
The best U-21 defender in South America, according to various sources including the CIES Football Observatory, Reis is a rock at the back for Palmeiras. With two goals in 18 senior appearances, the young defender is versatile, aerially dominant, and composed beyond his years. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid are among the clubs monitoring the £25 million-rated centre-back.
5. William Gomes (18, São Paulo – Attacking Midfielder/Winger)
William Gomes broke onto the scene last season with two goals in his first 12 top-flight games. Now tied down by São Paulo with a £100 million release clause, this versatile winger draws inspiration from Lucas Moura, another São Paulo alumnus. Tottenham, Arsenal, and Brighton are rumoured to be exploring whether Gomes is worth the hefty investment.
6. Alisson Santana (19, Atlético Mineiro – Attacking Midfielder)
Atlético Mineiro’s youngest ever starter in the Copa Libertadores, Alisson Santana has already helped his club reach the final. He joined Atlético Mineiro's youth academy in 2021, aged 15. Alisson is known for his creativity and work rate, and the attacking midfielder has a £50 million price tag. Clubs like Everton, Arsenal, and Fulham are keeping tabs on this emerging playmaker.
7. Lorran (18, Flamengo – Attacking Midfielder)
At 16, Lorran became Flamengo’s youngest goalscorer, a feat that speaks volumes about his talent. While he’s had ups and downs in form, his contract renewal until 2029 and an £85 million release clause reflect Flamengo’s confidence in him. Manchester United and Tottenham are among the clubs weighing their options, though his price might deter suitors.
8. Mycael (20, Atlético Paranaense – Goalkeeper)
Brazil’s next big hope between the sticks, Mycael, is being groomed to follow in the footsteps of Ederson and Alisson. The shot-stopper impressed with a man-of-the-match performance in last year’s U23 South American Championship final. Manchester City are keenly interested, potentially viewing him as a long-term investment.
Could he one day rival the dominance of Brazil’s current elite goalkeepers? Time will tell, but with his early promise and skill, he certainly has the potential to compete at the highest level.
9. Souza (18, Santos – Left Back)
In a position that has lacked Brazilian depth since the days of Marcelo and Roberto Carlos, Souza could be the answer. The young left-back has played seven games this season, helping Santos return to Brazil’s top division. His defensive capabilities and attacking instincts have attracted interest from Chelsea and Liverpool.
Several names have been omitted as Brazil's talent pool is vast and ever-growing, with many exceptional youngsters deserving recognition. Among others to watch out for are Matheus Gonçalves (18, Flamengo – Winger), Andrey Santos (19, Chelsea, on loan at Fluminense – Midfielder), Giovani (20, Palmeiras – Winger), and Rodrigo Ribeiro (18, Vasco da Gama – Forward), all of whom are making waves and could soon be on the radar of top European clubs.
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