Arsenal have accelerated their interest in Benfica striker Marcos Leonardo and have tabled an offer of €30 million plus bonuses for his services ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The Gunners wanted to sign the 20-year-old before he joined the Portuguese club from Santos in January and are still very much keen on recruiting his services.
Arsenal consider Leonardo as one of the most outstanding promises in Brazilian football in recent times and have put themselves in a position of advantage by offering a bid.
However, Benfica want to wait until the end of the season to determine the value of the youngster following his impressive start to life in Europe.
Leonardo bagged 13 goals and two assists in 31 league games for Santos in 2023 and has continued from where he stopped upon joining the Portuguese outfit, with four goals in seven substitute league appearances to his name so far.
The Brazilian is impressing suitors and it is clear to see why Arsenal want him.
The Gunners are expected to bring in another striker this summer despite their recent explosive form in front of goal.
They have been linked with several big-name signings so far, but going for Leonardo could be a smart decision given his current value and huge potential.
The South American is also on the radar of the likes of Manchester United and AS Roma, but it appears Arsenal are in the driving seat ahead of the next transfer window.
They may need to part with more than €30m to land him if he keeps banging in the goals at this rate, and Benfica will be glad to get the best out of the deal despite signing him just two months ago.
The Gunners will need more attacking depth next season, with the likes of Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson expected to be sold, and bringing in Leonardo could go a long way in bolstering their striking department.
