Arsenal is tracking one of the finest young defenders in Brazil

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Just Arsenal News

·21 January 2026

Arsenal is tracking one of the finest young defenders in Brazil

It comes as little surprise that Arsenal are once again being linked with a move for a highly rated 16-year-old talent from Brazil. The Gunners have built a strong reputation for identifying and developing young players, and their academy is widely regarded as one of the best in world football. This long-term commitment to youth development continues to shape their recruitment strategy.

Arsenal maintain an extensive global scouting network designed to identify the most promising youngsters at an early stage. This approach has allowed them to consistently add exciting prospects to their system, ensuring a steady pathway from youth football into the senior squad. As a result, the club remains an attractive destination for young players looking to develop in a structured and competitive environment.

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Arsenal’s Continued Focus on Youth Development

The latest name to be linked with the Gunners is Iago Machado. The teenager currently plays for Corinthians and has yet to make his senior debut, although that milestone appears to be drawing closer. His performances at the youth level have been impressive enough to earn him an invitation to train with the club’s first team, a clear indication of the regard in which he is held.

Arsenal’s interest reflects a broader philosophy centred on long-term planning rather than short-term fixes. The club believe that investing in elite young talent can yield significant rewards in the future, both on the pitch and in terms of squad sustainability. Machado is viewed as a player with the potential to grow into a high-level performer if developed correctly.

European Interest in Machado Grows

Arsenal is not alone in monitoring Machado’s progress. According to Globo, several top European clubs are aware of his development and are keeping a close eye on his situation. This growing attention underlines how highly he is rated within youth football circles and suggests competition could increase over time.

While Arsenal are understood to be keen on adding him to their ranks, it remains unclear when a formal move might be made. The club are known for taking a patient approach with young targets, ensuring the timing is right for both the player and the team. For now, Machado is firmly on Arsenal’s radar as a prospect they believe could develop into a significant asset in the future, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

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