Arsenal eye Brazilian wonderkid with £86.5m release clause after explosive start

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Arsenal are monitoring Bournemouth’s Brazilian sensation Rayan, who has burst onto the Premier League scene with a spectacular start that has caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs.

The 19-year-old forward only arrived at the Vitality Stadium in January for an initial £24.7million from Vasco da Gama, but his immediate impact has been nothing short of remarkable. Coming off the bench on his debut to provide an assist, Rayan then scored in each of his first two starts for the Cherries.

According to Brazilian publication RTI Esporte, Arsenal are joined by Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in tracking the teenager’s progress closely.

International recognition follows club form

Rayan’s explosive Premier League introduction has earned him his first call-up to the senior Brazil squad for friendlies against France and Croatia during the current international break. The winger is hoping to impress new national team coach Carlo Ancelotti and secure a spot in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

“I just have to do my job and work hard,” Rayan said after his senior call-up. “I hope to be called up for the World Cup, to be here with the national team. God willing, in two or three months, I want to be playing in a World Cup and win it, which is the greatest dream of any player.”

Massive price tag protects Cherries asset

Bournemouth have moved swiftly to protect their investment, inserting a substantial £86.5million release clause into Rayan’s contract. The Brazilian is tied to the south coast club until 2031 after signing a four-and-a-half-year deal upon his arrival.

Ancelotti has been impressed by what he’s seen from the teenager so far. “Rayan is a powerful, disciplined player with quality and a good attitude on the field,” the former Real Madrid boss said. “He’s performed very well in a difficult league like the Premier League. I believe he’s young and that he’s a future star for the national team.”

The player himself is confident about his attributes, explaining: “I’m a player with a lot of mobility; regardless of the role, mobility is a big part of my game. In my game, I also have a strong header and long-range shooting.”

With Arsenal continuing their search for attacking reinforcements and young talent, Rayan’s combination of immediate Premier League impact and international recognition makes him an intriguing prospect, though any potential move would require meeting Bournemouth’s hefty valuation.