Eduardo Conceicao has become one of the most sought-after young prospects in recent weeks, with several top clubs across Europe chasing the Brazilian prodigy.
The 16-year-old Palmeiras wonderkid also happens to be on the radars of FC Barcelona, with the club sporting director, Deco, believed to have made contact with his counterpart at the Brazilian club to convey the interest.
However, competition for the teenage forward is heating up, with Manchester City, in particular, emerging as a major threat.
Manchester City leading the race
Indeed, according to ESPN, Manchester City are currently leading the race for Conceicao and are attempting to accelerate negotiations in order to fend off interest from other clubs, particularly rivals in the Premier League, who are among the most active suitors.
The Cityzens’ plan is to reach an agreement as soon as possible, with a proposed fee of around €40 million. This figure aligns with what other English clubs have been preparing to offer in order to open talks with Palmeiras.
Barcelona, who had initially cooled their interest, have recently re-entered the contest for Conceicao.
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Other major clubs, including Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, are also in the race and remain in regular contact with people close to the player.
Manchester United, too, are weighing up an offer of around €40 million for the young attacker, while Liverpool are also understood to be in the race.
But, Manchester City, who have a good working relationship with Palmeiras, having previously signed players like Gabriel Jesus and Vitor Reis from the club, are currently ahead of the pack.
As Eduardo cannot move to Europe until he turns 18, Palmeiras are under no pressure to sell. With a stable financial situation, the club will only consider a deal at this stage if an exceptional offer is presented.
So, there could be time for Barcelona to turn the situation around, although some reports in Spain suggest that the Catalans might not be pursuing the teenager and that their name is being used to drive up his valuation.
