Arsenal and Everton are reportedly interested in signing 17-year-old Palmeiras forward Gabriel Veron, who has been likened to Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus.
According to a report from Tribal Football, Premier League clubs Arsenal and Everton are lining up a move for Palmeiras’ teenage attacker Gabriel Veron in the summer transfer window.
The 17-year-old Veron broke into the senior team at the Brazilian outfit not long ago. Till date, he has made only four first-team appearances, bagging two goals and a solitary assist along the way.
A regular in the Brazil Under-17 setup, Veron was one of the stars as they lifted the 2019 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, registering three goals and three assists apiece. As a result, he was awarded the Golden Ball. The 17-year-old’s exploits have put him on the radars of several clubs including Arsenal and Everton.
Arsenal have been increasing their presence in the Brazilian transfer market ever since Edu took over as the sporting director. Last summer, they signed teenage forward Gabriel Martinelli, who has been quite impressive in his debut campaign. The January transfer window saw the Gunners bring in Pablo Mari on loan from Flamengo, who they are now looking to sign permanently.
And, it now seems that Arsenal are targeting a move for the 17-year-old Veron, who has primarily played as a right winger, but can slot in anywhere in the frontline. However, they will have to fight off interest from fellow Premier League side Everton, who are also interested in the Brazilian teenager.
In fact, recent reports in Brazilian media claimed that the Toffees had already made a formal €15 million bid for the 17-year-old. But, their offer was rejected by Palmeiras, who value their attacker at €30 million. Everton have seen first-hand the impact Richarlison has made since arriving in the Premier League from Brazil, so it is understandable that they are planning on investing in Veron.
The 17-year-old Palmeiras starlet has been compared to Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus, a former Palmeiras alumni, by club president Mauricio Galiotte. “Veron will follow the story of Gabriel Jesus here, we have no doubt of that. We hope he stays at Palmeiras for a long time,” Galiotte said of Veron.
The teenage forward signed a new contract only last November, extending his stay at the club till 2024. It remains to be seen if either of Arsenal or Everton follow up with their interest in the teenage sensation.