Douglas Santos who plays as a left back for Brazilian club Atlético Mineiro has emerged as a target for European elites Barcelona, Arsenal and Valencia.
Spanish source AS reports that according to sources in Brazil, scouts from Mestella and Camp Nou have been identified in Brazil, surveying the young fullback who is just 22 and has already played for Italian side Udinese in the Serie A before being loaned back to Brazil.
Always a Backup, Never a Bride?
Brazilian source Globo Esporto from Belo Horizonte claims that amidst interest from Barcelona, Atlético Mineiro are keen to cash in on the youngster for £7.7million. With Kieran Gibbs reportedly set to leave, The Metro claims that Arsenal could take a gamble on the youngster who has already suffered an unsuccessful spell in Europe, albeit at a tender age and in a very difficult league.
Arsenal have been heavily linked with Riccardo Rodriguez of Wolfsburg whose arrival is a distinct possibility, but a possibility nonetheless. The Swiss left back is one of the best at his position at the moment, in the world which would inevitably prompt the German team to name an exorbitant fee for any interested parties.
Santos is therefore a viable alternative and could be a backup plan in case the Rodriguez transfer fails.
Barcelona are currently looking for a young understudy for Jordi Alba with Brazillian fullbacks Adriano and Dani Alves both set to leave soon for new destinations abroad. Should the Catalans be convinced of Santos’ talents, they could take him back to Camp Nou to replace fellow Brazillian Adriano.
Struggling Atletico Miniero
Atlético Mineiro are in desperate need of money with their recent financial debacles and awaiting offers for Santos. Reports say that the 22 year old’s agent met with scouts from Spain, during a recent Brazil U23 match. One should expect negotiations to be advanced in the coming days.
Douglas Santos was a part of the Copa América squad that performed horrendously in the group stages and got kcocked out eventually. Santos however didn’t play a single minute as Dunga’s men exited another prestigious tournament during its early stages.
The Nautico youth player signed for Granada in 2012 and went on loan to Udinese, but could only to make an impact at the Friuli, which is understandeable given his age and the lack of conducive atmosphere in Italy for young players especially unknown foreigners. He was loaned to, and subsequently bought by, Atlético Mineiro.
