Liverpool-linked wonderkid Talles Magno is a “phenomenon” comparable to Thierry Henry or Neymar, Vasco da Gama sporting director Fabio Cordella has told Il Napolista.
It’s not often a teenager with only two first-team appearances under his belt is linked with a £25 million move to the Premier League.
But Talles Magno is no ordinary teenager.
In May, Foot Mercato reported Paris Saint-Germain, Sevilla, Lazio, Bayer Leverkusen and Benfica were jostling for a 6ft 1in striker with majestic close control and dextrous dribbling ability.
With the spotlight fixed firmly on him, however, Magno has found life a tad difficult since establishing himself in Vasco da Gama’s first team.
Having gone on to make 27 appearances this season, he has scored just two goals. And questions are starting to be asked about whether all the hype was really worth it.
But while Cordella has his heart in the right place, comparing a callow youngster to two of the finest forwards of the 21st century may do Magno few favours in the long run.
“Talles Magno is a phenomenon. Trust me, he will break through. He has the physical structure and movements of Thierry Henry. In certain situations he is reminiscent of Neymar,” says Cordella.
“He is the classic exponent of the Brazilian ‘jogo bonito’ (‘play beautifully’).
“His role is that of second striker. Today, Talles Magno is worth no less than 50 million, but we won’t sell him immediately.
“There is time for Europe. I want to keep him at Vasco for another year, to make him grow.”
In the summer, Esporte reported Magno had set his heart on Liverpool and was desperate to work with Jurgen Klopp. The German has a remarkable track record when it comes to turning youngsters into world-class talent.
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