Report: Arsenal and Manchester City can sign 11-goal gem for £8.5m, but there’s a problem

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Arsenal and Manchester City can sign Internacional star Youri Alberto for just £8.5m, but face rival competition from Real Madrid and Barcelona, according to Corriere dello Sport.

Alberto has built a reputation in his native Brazil as one of the most sought-after young prospects around today. He showed on Sunday why more suitors are lining up at his door with a hat-trick over Flamengo, to help inspire a 4-0 win at the reigning Serie A champions.

The 20-year-old dismantled Renato Portaluppi’s side as he moved his tally for the year to 11 across all competitions. Alberto has also started 23 of his 36 appearances, and helped Internacional reach the Campeonato Gaucho final in May.

Alberto has particularly impressed Arsenal and Manchester City with his maturity in the Internacional attack. The 6ft prospect is also an elegant and pacey runner with the ball, a dangerous presence in progressing play and is physically imposing for his still tender age.

Now, Real Madrid and Barcelona are starting to follow Alberto’s rise after becoming an established part of the Internacional side. Further Premier League, Serie A and La Liga interest has also seen Colorado value their U23 international at €10m (£8.5m).

But Corriere dello Sport expect Alberto’s stock will keep rising with a constant growth as his reputation explodes. He made his U23s international debut in 2020 after netting six times in just 12 U17 fixtures.

Arsenal have long admired Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid target Alberto

Arsenal have scouted Alberto since 2017 as the Gunners look to snap up promising players. That’s according to UOL, who cited Manchester United and Roma as interested parties. But they now face competition from Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona, it seems.

The Emirates Stadium hierarchy may rue not moving sooner for the Internacional talent, as well, if they now miss out. Alberto is shining in Brazil to see his stock and status rise, as a versatile offensive weapon polishing his shooting.

Alberto has featured for Internacional across the front line this year, but found a home for himself at striker. Arsenal, Manchester City or their rival suitors may now want to snap up Alberto for £8.5m before his value skyrockets.