AC Milan look to be preparing a £14 million bid for Alexandre Pato.
The 17-year-old Internacional striker upstaged countryman Ronaldinho in last week’s World Club Cup final against Barcelona in Tokyo.
Pato, nicknamed Alex the Duck’, scored with his first touch on his senior debut against Palmeiras in domestic competition last month and interest from Arsenal prompted his Brazilian club to increase his buy-out clause.
But the hefty fee hasn’t put off the struggling Serie A giants who are determined to strengthen with players who won’t be cup tied for their Champions League assault.
Milan communications director Umberto Gandini said: “We are following Pato with serious interest.
There is a minor problem in that the boy does not have a European passport but that can be overcome.”
Vice-president Adriano Galliani said: “This club has a Brazilian spirit and we intend for that to continue. This kid is something special.”
