According to UOL journalist Paulo Vinicius Coelho, Arsenal could land 18-year-old Bahia midfielder Ramires in January.
The story was broken on Wednesday, amid reports that Arsenal are in a battle with Atletico Madrid for the teenager. Ramires, whose full name is Eric dos Santos Rodrigues, has broken in the Bahia first team this season.
Ramires, who wears the number six for his current employers, has played 11 matches for Bahia this season.
Paulo Vinicius Coelho reports that while Atletico Madrid have watched Ramires twice, Arsenal have scouted the midfielder on six occasions.
UOL predict that Ramires could leave Bahia in the January transfer window.
Readers are told the midfielder’s most likely destination is Arsenal. No transfer fee is detailed in the UOL report.
UOL also confirm that Ramires gained his nickname with reference to the former Chelsea midfielder.
While the two players don’t look alike, Bahia’s teenager is said to have the same style on the pitch as the former Chelsea player.
For the record, ‘Chelsea’s Ramires’ is currently plying his trade in China with Jiangsu Suning.
How Adidas are involved. As has been confirmed, Adidas will become Arsenal’s new kit manufacturer from the start of next season.
Adidas have agreed a five year deal with Arsenal.
The Gunners will reportedly earn £300 million over the course of the contract. UOL report that Adidas may have an influence in helping Arsenal secure the services of Ramires.
UOL reveal that Adidas have Ramires as one of their representatives. However a few weeks ago, in renewal talks between the global manufacturer and the footballer, Adidas sent a more senior representative than usual to meet with the player.
A Bahia official said: “This is not the representative of the sports equipment company that normally talks to the athletes.”
UOL float the rumour that Adidas are seeking to sign Ramires up to a global contract, which hints at the possible move to Arsenal.