Representatives working on behalf of reported Arsenal target Kaio Jorge believe the so-called ‘new Neymar’ should be allowed to leave Santos for a cut-price £18 million, as reported by OFluminense.
The future of one of Brazil’s biggest talents is being played out rather publicly over in South America.
It is no secret that Jorge wants to follow in the footsteps of former Santos wonderkids Neymar and Robinho and seal a big-money move to Europe.
Club president Andres Rueda confirmed as much earlier this week.
Calciomercato reports that Arsenal are battling a number of Serie A sides for the teenager’s signature, with Edu clearly hoping that lightning strikes twice, two years after the inspired addition of a little-known Gabriel Magalhaes.
Jorge’s contract is due to expire in December and, while Santos know that their prized asset will not be staying around forever, one of the biggest clubs in Brazil have not given up hope of tying the striker down to a new deal.
OFluminense reports that, if Jorge is to extend his contract, he wants a substantial pay rise. What he wants and what he gets, however, may be two very different things.
The player and his representatives were far from impressed by the initial offer put forward by Santos recently.
Jorge’s agents, meanwhile, believe that £18 million would represent good value for a man who will be a free agent in a matter of months. Santos, however, are unwilling to accept less than £43 million at this stage.
There is no end to this particular saga, it seems.
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