- Arsenal face new competition for Palmeiras star Benedetti
- Predicted Arsenal line-up against Atletico Madrid
- Arsenal ‘top contender’ to sign Juventus’ Khephren Thuram
- Arsenal eye move for Saint-Étienne’s Djylian N’Guessan
- Arsenal face fight to sign wonderkid Ian Subiabre
- Three things we learnt from Arsenal’s narrow win over Fulham
- Arsenal target Gordon has release clause added to contract
- Arsenal handed boost in pursuit of Michael Kayode
- Arsenal’s predicted line-up against Fulham
- Arsenal told the secret of winning the PL this season
Arsenal face new competition for Palmeiras star Benedetti
Arsenal’s plans to strengthen their defence could face a major test as Nottingham Forest have entered the race to sign Palmeiras defender Luiz Benedetti, according to ESPN Brazil as relayed by Sport Witness.
The 19-year-old has been a consistent target for Arsenal, with several Brazilian outlets linking him with a move to north London.
However, the Gunners may now have to compete with Forest, who are reportedly keen to bring the youngster to England.
Mikel Arteta has placed huge importance on improving his defensive options.
Despite already securing Piero Hincapie earlier this summer, Arsenal are reportedly still keen to add another left-sided defender to their squad.
Benedetti’s impressive progress in Brazil has placed him firmly on their radar.
The teenager has become one of the standout players at Palmeiras this season.
His calm defending, solid positioning, and ability to play from the back have earned him recognition both domestically and abroad.
Barcelona also keeping close watch
Barcelona are another major club following Benedetti closely. Reports in Spain claim the La Liga giants are ready to make a £10 million offer for him when the transfer window reopens in January.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest see Benedetti as a long-term investment. Their defensive struggles this season have forced them to search for fresh talent, and the Brazilian could offer an affordable solution.
The presence of several of his countrymen at Forest, including Douglas Luiz, Igor Thiago, Murillo, and Morato, could also make the move appealing.
According to Brazilian football experts Diego Firmino and Felipe Lemos, Benedetti is valued between £10.4 million and £13 million, as per the report.
He remains under contract with Palmeiras until 2029, meaning the club hold a strong position in any negotiations.
For Arsenal, securing his signature will require swift action.
The Gunners’ scouting team have been closely monitoring his development, but with Forest and Barcelona both preparing offers, the north London side may need to accelerate their move if they wish to stay in the race.
Benedetti’s rise in Brazilian football has been rapid, and his next move could be a defining step in his career.
Arsenal must now decide whether to meet Palmeiras’ valuation or risk losing another highly rated young defender to a European rival.