Man Utd ‘consider transfer move for £56.2m Brazil U20 star labelled ‘next Robert Lewandowski'
The 19-year-old Brazilian has been making waves in South America and is now attracting interest from major European clubs, including the fallen Premier League giants.
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Ricardo Mathias is a man on his way to big things in the world of football
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They say that rarely is there a game now in Brazil without a scout coming around to see him
Credit: Getty
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He reminds many of the former Dortmund striker Lewandowski
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According to a report from Globo Esporte the player is valued at £56.2m and United recently sent a scout to watch him during Internacional's Copa do Brasil match against Fluminense.
The game, held at the iconic Maracana Stadium, ended in a 1-1 draw, which led to Internacional's elimination from the competition.
However Mathias still managed to leave a strong impression despite limited minutes.
The scout in attendance was Alexandre Torres, a former player and the son of Brazilian football legend Carlos Alberto Torres.
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Torres, who currently works as an scout for United, was reportedly keeping a close eye on the teenager's performance throughout the match.
Mathias came off the bench during the game but his brief appearance was enough to capture Torres' attention.
The young forward showed glimpses of his potential with sharp movement, strong positioning and a physical presence that clearly stood out even in a high-pressure match.
Before United's scouting mission, Mathias had already been on the radar of several other clubs.
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PSV Eindhoven were among the first European sides to express interest, reportedly considering a move to bring the striker to the Eredivisie.
Additionally, two Brazilian investment groups have attempted to secure part-ownership of his economic rights.
Benjamin Sesko touches down in private jet at Manchester Airport before being whisked away to seal £74m Man Utd transfer
However, none of those efforts have yet materialised into a completed transfer or partnership.
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One unnamed Premier League club has gone a step further than the rest, having already submitted a letter of intent regarding their interest in the young forward, signalling potential negotiations.
Standing at 6ft 3in, Mathias is a physically imposing striker who combines strength with impressive speed and agility.
This rare combination of attributes has earned him early comparisons to world-class centre-forward Robert Lewandowski.
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United have already signed Sesko to address their goalscoring problems
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Cunha and Mbeumo have also arrived to strenghten the squad
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Like Lewandowski, Mathias is known for his intelligent movement and ability to find space in tight areas.
He is also comfortable dropping deep to link up play, working effectively with midfielders and wide players to create attacking opportunities.
Manchester United, still in the midst of rebuilding under Ruben Amorim, have already signed Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in response to finishing 15th in the league last season.
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They have also been linked to Gianluigi Donnarumma as questions remain of goalkeeper Andre Onana.
There is also an on-going drive to get players out of the door with the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho all set to leave before the transfer window shuts next month.
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