From Brazil: Manchester City enter ‘intense’ European royal rumble for Ronaldinho 2.0 | OneFootball

Manchester City are hopeful over beating some of Europe’s biggest clubs to the signature of 15-year-old wonderkid Kaua Pavuna, according to reports in Brazil. 

Pavuna currently represents Flamengo’s U15 and U16 sides and has emerged as one of the most talented prospects in his age group(s), drawing comparisons to some of the world’s best.

The Brazilian is described as a classic number 10 and has been likened to Ronaldinho, one of the most skilful and talented footballers in history who won the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League and the Ballon d’Or.

And while modern football has moved away from traditional playmakers, Pavuna’s football revolves around being a creative asset whose technical quality unlocks defences.

Report: City enter wide-ranging race for Pavuna

The youngster is viewed as a player who embraces the role of an old-school Brazilian and as a result of his rise to prominence, several of the world’s most prestigious clubs have declared their interest. 

According to Brazilian insider Joao Van Boysen, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal are all monitoring the future star, with “an intense race underway” for the teenager’s signature. 

Behind the scenes, all clubs are now seeking to establish an advantage to organise a move for when Pavuna is at a suitable age to move to the country of the respective club he signs for. 

In the Premier League, a player moving overseas must be a minimum of 18 years old due to post-Brexit FIFA and FA international transfer regulations. Similar legislation is in place for Spain as well, though certain exemptions means some players can move to a La Liga club at 16.

How highly is Pavuna rated in Brazil?

For Pavuna, the sky is quite clearly the limit but the next steps of his career come with as much reward as they do risk. 

There is a degree of showmanship in his approach that has prompted references to the former Barcelona and Brazil star, Ronaldinho. Some talent watchers in Brazil have described him as one of the country’s biggest prospects of his generation. 

There is a long, long road ahead before anyone can seriously discuss a transfer and at this stage, Pavuna’s development remains the key factor which could decide where his future is set. 

Yet reports of an intense race involving City, United and Arsenal suggest Europe’s most prominent clubs are already trying to move into pole position should Flamengo’s latest creative talent continue on his potential-ridden path.