Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, are eyeing Porto's star striker Evanilson to boost their attacking power ahead of next season, FootballTransfers can reveal. The 24-year-old Brazilian shone in the 2023/24 season with an impressive tally of 15 goals and five assists in 22 appearances, including an outstanding performance of four goals in the Champions League.
Paulo Xavier, the Gunners' new scout who has particular experience with South American players, has been tasked with leading the search for Evanilson. Known as the next Robert Lewandowski, the striker becomes Arsenal's main target, who would be willing to spend around €75 million for his services due to his immense potential.
Arteta's new target
Arsenal sporting director Edu has developed a strong relationship with South American talent in recent years, signing players such as Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos. Now Evanilson could join that list, further strengthening the Latin American presence on the team.
There were already signs of a connection on social media when winger Martinelli posted a photo with Fabio Vieira in the Arsenal dressing room and Evanilson joined the exchange, describing the duo as impressive.
As for Evanilson, the Brazilian striker joined Fluminense in 2013 before moving to Porto in 2020. With a contract that runs until 2027, he has scored 51 goals in 134 games for the Portuguese team. Although his transfer value is estimated at €18.5 million, Arsenal are ready to make a significant offer for the talented attacker given his outstanding performance and potential to strengthen the team's forward line next season.