Arsenal Make £7m Formal Offer for Versatile Brazil U20 Star Rodrigo Caio

Arsenal are considering a move for Sao Paulo's Rodrigo Caio this summer, according to the Metro.

The 20-year-old was the star player for Brazil's under-20 side during the recently concluded Toulon Tournament in France. The South American nation were crowned champions and Caio was named Best Player of the tournament.

The report claims Arsenal scouts were closely monitoring Caio during the Toulon Tournament and are believed to have been impressed with his performance. The Brazilian can play either as a centre-back or as a defensive midfielder and his versatile style of play has seen him receive a lot of praise.

Caio is managed by football agent Jorge Mendes, who is keen on bringing him to Europe. The Metro claims Arsenal's chief scout Steve Rowley has already held talks with the Brazilian's agent over a potential transfer to the Emirates this summer.

It is believed that the Gunners have tabled a formal offer and are willing to pay Sao Paulo £7m for Caio's services. If the Brazilian agrees terms with Arsenal this summer, the player needs to wait till he gets a work permit to play in England.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is believed to have received a lot of praise from his scouting team about Caio's abilities.

The north London club have Per Mertesacker, Lauren Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen as first choice centre-backs in the squad. However, the Belgium international's future at the Emirates is uncertain as he is reportedly looking for a move away from the club this summer.

Vermaelen has been linked with a shock move to Manchester United. The Red Devils' incoming manager Louis van Gaal, who has worked with him at Ajax, wants the centre-back at Old Trafford.

Should the Belgium defender leave Arsenal, the addition of Caio could see him replace Vermaelen in the Gunners' squad for the next season.