March’s clash between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium was the day when Manchester United wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo announced himself on the international stage.
But the teenage playmaker wasn’t the only rising star who showcased his talents to a wider audience during that hard-fought 1-0 win for the Selecao over Gareth Southgate’s side.
Endrick, the latest Samba starlet on his way to Real Madrid, added another chapter to his fairytale career as he struck that second-half decider at arguably European football’s most iconic arena.
But while Endrick’s future has been decided already – Carlo Ancelotti’s Champions League finalists stumping up an eye-watering sum in the hope of another Vinicius Junior or Rodrygo-style success story – that of Bento remains shrouded in doubt.
The only certainly seems to be that Bento Matheus Krepski, to give him his full name, will be following Endrick across the Atlantic this summer.
Brazil goalkeeper Bento could move to the Premier League
HITC understands that the £15 million-rated Bento, who kept a clean sheet during an impressive display at Wembley, caught the eye of Premier League trio Nottingham Forest, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea.
Currently plying his trade for Athletico Paranaense back home in Brazil, head coach Cuca is clearly not expecting to still have Bento at his disposal come September. The manager even admits that Athletico are ‘preparing’ 23-year-old Leo Linck to take his team-mate’s place.
“We will soon lose Bento,” Cuca tells Globo Esprote. “He’s asking for a ticket (to leave), and that’s what the players are looking for.
“A place in Europe to make a nest egg and play in the world’s main championships. He’s earning it (his chance).
“We are already preparing Leo Linck,” adds the coach, Bento the latest talented shot-stopper to make his name at Athletico. “(We) have something with goalkeepers that I’ve never seen (anywhere else). It’s up to us to create (a new one).”
Another new glovesman at Chelsea or Nottingham Forest?
Two of Bento’s suitors, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest, are looking for some clarity between the sticks after a season of uncertainty. Robert Sanchez lost his place at Stamford Bridge to Djordje Petrovic a few months ago.
Forest, meanwhile, have had no fewer than three number ones in 2023/24 alone, Matt Turner and Odysseas Vlachodimos both struggling to convince before Matz Sels made the position his own from February onwards.
Wolves, meanwhile, have a decision to make over Jose Sa. According to The Athletic, there is interest from Saudi Arabia in the former Olympiakos glovesman. Josa Sa signed a new long-term contract late last year but concerns remain with regards to his distribution.
HITC have been told that Wolves are watching Roma shot-stopper Mile Svilar.
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