ARSENAL are reportedly set to sign Sao Paulo starlet Marquinhos for £3million on a long-term contract until 2027.
It has been claimed that the Gunners have reached a full agreement with the Brazilian club after the forward turned down multiple contract offers.
The North London outfit have managed to secure a cut-price fee for the 19-year-old following a legal issue.
Marquinhos was thought to be tied down to a five-year deal at Sao Paulo – a contract he signed in 2019.
However, Fifa have now ruled that the contract is only valid for three years – the maximum length for a player signing their first professional deal.
And Arsenal have swooped in to negotiate a fee with Sao Paulo where they appear to have beaten Wolves and Atletico Madrid in the race to secure his services.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the potential transfer is all-but done.
The Italian reporter has also stated that Arsenal are set to test Manchester City’s resolve of striker Gabriel Jesus.
His agent has already confirmed that talks between the club and player have already taken place over a summer switch.
Taking to social media, Romano tweeted: “Arsenal have reached full agreement with Sao Paulo to sign Brazilian winger Marquinhos, born in 2003.
“Done deal, set to be signed – contract until June 2027.
“Fee will be around €3.5m (£3m) guaranteed.
“And Arsenal are also preparing their opening bid for Gabriel Jesus.”
Marquinhos, who has been capped three times for Brazil’s Under-17s. has chipped in with three goals and one assist from 15 games in all competitions this season.