United, Chelsea eye Thiago Maia

Manchester United and Chelsea are among those keeping a close eye on Santos’ highly-rated midfielder Thiago Maia, according to 'Calciomercato'.

The 19-year-old is considered to be one of the hottest prospects in Brazilian football, having shone in his homeland and for his national side as it took gold at the 2016 Olympics.

United and Chelsea have noted his potential, but they are likely to face heavyweight competition from across Europe.

Serie A champion Juventus is said to be preparing a bid, while Ligue 1 giant Paris Saint-Germain is prepared to part with 20 million euros ($21M) in order to take Maia to France.