Football News
United and Arsenal face competition for Costa
Manchester United and Arsenal will face tough competition to secure the signing of Gremio's Douglas Costa after the player's agent confirmed that the Brazilian starlet has been targeted by a major German side, rumoured to be Bayern Munich.
Speaking exclusively to Sport.co.uk the player's agent has confirmed that a major German club have also entered the race for the skillful attacking midfielder.
"There was an approach from a big German club. They saw him at the South American Youth Championship and liked the player.
"There have been talks and we will see what happens in the next week"
The news will come as a blow to Manchester United who earlier last week attempted to take the talented youngster on a trial, but were rebuffed by club president, Duda Kroeff.
“I received a phone call from someone working for Manchester United, he asked for Douglas to be released [for a trial period] and said that he would not play, but that they wanted to see him in action. I said to them that this will not happen.
“Douglas is not at a stage where he would go through such a situation. He is an established player, he is not a stranger. He has no need to face tests at European clubs.”
With Real Madrid and Arsenal also reportedly interested in the player, Douglas Costa is one of the most sought-after prospects in South America. The 18 year old prodigy has a minimum fee release clause of £21m, however it is doubtful whether this valuation will be met by European clubs, with most valuing the player at around £7m.