Dorival watches Iago Machado as Arsenal and Ajax eye Corinthians prospect with 100 million euros release clause | OneFootball

Corinthians centre-back Iago Machado, 16, has stepped up to work with the first team and is on the radar of Arsenal and Ajax.

According to Globo.com, club and agent representatives have fielded enquiries in recent weeks, with interest focused on a transfer once he turns 18 next February, since international moves for minors are not allowed.

Corinthians intend to hold firm if that interest becomes a bid, having added a contract clause that lifted his salary and set a 100 million euros release clause, equivalent to R$ 630 million at current rates.

There are no talks at present, though the club are aware approaches could follow. Despite financial strain and a target to raise R$ 151 million from player rights, they do not want to sell a leading academy prospect.

Machado was one of few standouts in this year’s Copinha and has been brought in by Dorival Júnior for an observation period with the senior group alongside left-back Guilherme Pires.

With a congested schedule in January and February, the club may turn to academy players to rest starters. He has impressed in sessions and could be registered and named soon for the Campeonato Paulista and/or the Brasileirão.

At 1.87 metres, Machado has been at Corinthians since he was six and is noted for leadership, technique, reading of the game and aerial threat.

Source: Globo.com