Arsenal are stepping up their interest in Vasco da Gama’s teenage sensation Rayan, after club scouts watched the 19-year-old striker impress in a 2-0 win over Fluminense on Monday night.
According to BolaVip, two Gunners representatives were in the stands at the Maracanã and left “enchanted” by the Brazilian’s performance — so much so, that they picked up the phone to call a director back in London at 1am to report back.
The club is said to be fully convinced by Rayan’s profile, with Arsenal now emerging as serious contenders in what could soon become a Premier League transfer battle.
Arsenal enchanted by Rayan
Rayan’s goal, movement, and overall maturity in possession reportedly caught Arsenal’s scouts off guard. His combination of strength, pace, and composure stood out, with one source claiming his display was “simply too good to ignore.”
This latest scouting trip is part of Arsenal’s broader strategy to build deeper roots in South America. The Gunners have made significant investments in emerging markets recently, and Rayan is now very much on their radar.
Tottenham, Barcelona also in the race for Rayan
Arsenal aren’t alone. Tottenham and Barcelona have also scouted the teenager this month, while clubs like Aston Villa and Newcastle are also keeping close tabs. Inside Vasco, the growing sense is that a European offer is not far off — and if Rayan keeps up this form, bids could come in by the start of 2026.
While Vasco aren’t in a rush to sell, they’re realistic about the situation. Rayan is under contract and developing fast, and the club believes he could fetch €30m (£25.7m) or more. However, they also know that a “serious and irresistible offer” could change their stance very quickly.
For now, Arsenal are doing their homework. But after last night’s performance and a 1am wake-up call to one of the club’s top decision-makers, don’t be surprised if things start moving faster than expected.
