Enzo Maresca during Chelsea's clash against Bournemouth(Image: Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)

Arsenal copy Chelsea plan to sign £58m Brazilian wonderkid after passing transfer audition

Chelsea have enjoyed plenty of success in the South American market recently, and now Arsenal want a piece of the action

07 Oct 2024, 07:58 by Jake Stokes · football.london

Arsenal and Chelsea look set to battle it out for the signing of Joao Pedro Chermont. The 18-year-old defender has been recently linked with a move to the Premier League following his impressive performances for Santos in the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie B.

Chermont, who sees his contract at the Urbano Caldeira Stadium expire in December 2027, has enjoyed an excellent vein of form in the second tier of Brazilian football, becoming a mainstay in Neymar's former side. He's featured 24 times, scoring two goals and providing three assists as they chase promotion back into the top flight.

According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal and Chelsea are among several Premier League clubs 'closely monitoring' the Brazil Under-20 international's development ahead of the January transfer window. The report states that the Gunners and the Blues are preparing to make bids for Chermont, having already opened initial talks with his entourage.

CaughtOffside adds that scouts have been spotted watching the teenager recently, and he's clearly made a good impression. Chermont has a €70m (£58.8m) release clause in his deal, but it's said that Santos are now 'open to offers' below said fee.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have also been credited with interest in the right-back. While Chelsea may be keen to secure Chermont's signature, Reece James could soon return from the treatment room after suffering a hamstring injury earlier this season.

The 24-year-old defender missed the start of the new campaign after he was shown a red card in the penultimate game of last term. Then, just as James looked set to come back, he picked up another knock.

The England international has been really unfortunate with injuries lately, but he's now doing 'well' and expected to be back in action 'soon'. Upon his return, James looks set to be given a key role in Enzo Maresca's side, operating as an inverted full-back.

When asked about the demands of the new position in July, he said: "The early days have been very enjoyable. It’s a lot different to what I’m used to but I think with how I play it suits me quite well. I’ve still got a lot to learn for what he wants in the role but I’m excited and I can’t wait."

Then, in an interview with talkSPORT the following month, James added: "He has been amazing from the moment he came in. His ideas, and what he wants to do are very clear. It’s just about time now and executing so we can be the best, which is what he wants."

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