Arsenal tracking Brazilian teenage right back Ryan Augusto
Arsenal are keeping tabs on a highly rated teenage right back in Brazil, with the club reportedly weighing up a move in the second half of the season as part of their wider scouting efforts around the world.
According to Sport Witness, Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring Ryan Augusto of Red Bull Bragantino, an Under 20 defender who has made a rapid breakthrough into the Brazilian club's first team this year. His performances since stepping up to senior football have reportedly caught the eye of several major European sides.
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Why Arsenal are watching Augusto
Arsenal's defence is widely regarded as one of the strongest in Europe, with a settled and experienced back line that has delivered consistently in recent seasons. Even so, the club continues to assess emerging talent globally, and Augusto is said to be viewed as one of the best Under 20 right backs anywhere in the world right now.
His emergence has not gone unnoticed elsewhere either. Interest from other top clubs across Europe means Arsenal could face stiff competition if they decide to move for the youngster, with his stock continuing to rise the longer he performs at Bragantino.
Gunners working behind the scenes
Arsenal are reportedly relying on their scouting network and intermediaries to stay close to the situation, aiming to be well placed if Augusto decides a move to Europe is the right next step in his career. Given his age, any deal would represent a long term investment rather than an immediate first team solution, with plenty of development still required before he could be considered ready for Premier League football.
Arsenal have a recent history of bringing promising Brazilian talent through their system, and Augusto would fit that pattern if a move were to materialise. For now, though, his situation remains one of several being tracked by the club's recruitment staff rather than an active negotiation.
Should Augusto continue to impress at Bragantino, Arsenal may need to move quickly to stay ahead of rival suitors in the second half of the season. The club's defensive strength in depth gives them little urgency, but the pursuit of young talent abroad remains a consistent part of their recruitment strategy.
