Man United, Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham register an interest in Santos striker Marcos Leonardo

Santos striker Marcos Leonardo is attracting attention from Premier League clubs with his performances for Brazil U20s.

The 20-year old scored three goals for Brazil in the first two games of the U20 World Cup in Argentina and lines up against Tunisia tonight in the knockout stages.

Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham have all watched Leonardo over the past year and Santos are expecting bids in the coming days as his profile rises.

Leonardo has been compared to Argentina’s Sergio Aguero in style. Though not the biggest, he is strong, can finish off either foot, is quick and skilful.

Chelsea scouts, who have been monitoring Gambia’s Adama Bojang at the tournament, have also taken note of Leonardo.

Leonardo – pictured performing a bicycle kick against Israel Boatwright of Dominican Republic – has captured their attention with his performances for Brazil U20 side

He made his Santos first team debut in 2020 and has gone on to score 41 goals in 140 appearances.

West Ham tried to sign the youngster during the January transfer market but saw their bid rejected. 

However, they are expected to try again this summer after sending a representative to the U20 World Cup to keep tabs on him. 

The Hammers will have to fend off interest from the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal to secure his signature this summer. 

Chelsea have also taken an interested in the 20-year-old after watching him in action during their pursuit of his Brazilian team-mate Andrey Santos. 

Therefore, the Blues are keeping tabs on Leonardo at the U20 World Cup while watching Gambia’s Bojang simultaneously. 

However, Leonardo – who cites Cristiano Ronaldo as his idol – is under contract in Brazil until the end of 2026.