Arsenal are keen on signing Palmeiras’ young centre-back Luiz Benedetti, with Mikel Arteta giving his approval for the potential transfer. 

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing Palmeiras’ 19-year-old centre-back Luiz Benedetti as a potential signing, with manager Mikel Arteta giving his nod of approval for the deal. 

Benedetti, who stands at an impressive 6’6″ (198 cm), has been making waves in the Brazilian top-flight with his strong distribution skills, ability to win regular duels, and commanding presence on the pitch.

The teenager has only made nine competitive appearances for Palmeiras so far, but his performances have caught the eye of European scouts. Benedetti boasts an impressive 93% pass completion rate in the Brazilian top-flight, winning 70% of his duels and showcasing his potential as a top-class defender.

Arsenal’s interest in Benedetti comes after they were beaten to the signing of Vitor Reis, another Palmeiras talent, by Manchester City in January. Reis was described as a first-team signing for the Cityzens but has been loaned out to sister club Girona for the 2025/26 campaign.

With a contract running until December 2029, Arsenal would need to pay a substantial fee to secure Benedetti’s services. Given Manchester City’s £29.5 million deal for Reis, Palmeiras might be looking for a similar or even higher amount for Benedetti. The current valuation of the young defender is around €500,000, but this figure is expected to rise significantly amid growing European interest.

If Arsenal succeeds in signing Benedetti, he would provide depth and long-term investment in defense, complementing existing centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.