Arsenal and Barcelona are closely monitoring Palmeiras teenager Luiz Gustavo Roncholeta Benedetti, with the 19-year-old centre-back rapidly emerging as one of Brazil’s most intriguing defensive prospects.

Luiz Gustavo Roncholeta Benedetti Rapid rise in Brazil

Benedetti only made his senior debut in January, yet he has already racked up 18 appearances this season, contributing two goals.

Standing at 1.97m, left-footed, and composed in possession, he ticks many of the boxes European scouts are searching for in the modern centre-back.

Palmeiras moved quickly to secure his long-term future, tying him to a contract until 2029. That deal ensures they will be in a strong negotiating position if interest escalates, even though his current valuation sits at just €1m.

Interest from Arsenal and Barcelona

Reports in São Paulo suggest Arsenal’s admiration is no secret, with journalist Diego Firmino confirming the London club have been tracking Benedetti closely.

Fellow reporter Gustavo Soler has also indicated that one European side considered an offer of around £8.5m plus bonuses before the close of the transfer window, though a move failed to materialise.

Arsenal’s sporting department see him as the type of low-risk, high-upside signing who can grow within Mikel Arteta’s system without the pressure of starting every week.

As their current defensive core is settled, Benedetti would represent an investment for the future rather than an immediate first-team fixture.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are keeping tabs as they continue to reshape their defence.

Given their financial situation, they may weigh their options carefully before firming up any interest. Napoli have also been linked but are unlikely to make a move due to budget limitations.

What comes next

Benedetti is currently fifth choice under Abel Ferreira at Palmeiras, but his combination of physical presence, ball-playing ability, and age profile makes him a prime candidate for European recruitment.

He is also expected to feature for Brazil’s U20s, which could further boost his visibility on the international stage.

For now, no official bids have been lodged, but Arsenal’s strategy of identifying young South American talents before their value soars suggests they could act sooner rather than later.

Barcelona’s shadow remains in the background, and the next 12 months may be decisive in determining Benedetti’s European future.