We bring you a quick profile on the talented youngster currently being pursued by Liverpool FC.
Brendan Rodgers has a blueprint for success at Liverpool FC and that blueprint involves the signing and grooming of top young talent so they can be moulded into world-beaters. The ambitious project has seen Liverpool scouts searching far and wide for the crème de la crème of footballing protégés to put through their system.
Today reports suggest no different. The Liverpool Echo have reported that Liverpool are interested in making an approach for Gremio’s young player Matheus Biteco.
So what can we tell you about the lad?
Here are five facts…
1) Matheus Biteco’s full name is in fact Matheus Bitencourt da Silva and he recently celebrated his 18th birthday; an important fact for Liverpool fans. Brazilian players are prohibited from joining overseas clubs until they have turned 18. Biteco celebrated the accolade on Friday and that has probably reignited the rumours over his future.
2) Biteco made his debut for Gremio in February this year. He came on as a substitute in a 4-0 loss against Sao Luiz. He played his first full 90 minutes two weeks later in the Porto Alegre derby against an Internacional side containing Premier League old-boys Andres D’Alessandro and Diego Forlan as well as Tottenham target Leandro Damiao.
3) He is described as a dynamic ball-winning midfielder, not dissimilar in style to current Tottenham transfer target Paulinho, with excellent control and passing ability. Former Real Madrid manager Vanderlei Luxemburgo is said to be keen to give him game time when the 2013 Campeanato Brasileiro gets under way; so much so he released Misael from his loan spell at the club.
4) He has represented Brazil at international level. This summer he took part in the Toulon World Youth Festival for a Brazilian under-21 side where he caught the eye as Brazil won the competition; beating Colombia in the final. His performance in the 2-0 victory over Portugal has received the most plaudits.
5) Despite being fairly new on the scene he is still highly rated and valued at his current club; with an asking price of £5 million.
Here is a video of him in action at the Toulon Festival…
image: © silver astronaut
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