Brazil's young soccer talent expected to become top European transfer targets

European clubs looking for deals in January transfer window will find future stars among latest generation of young soccer talent in Brazil.

Two of m will soon be in Europe — Real Madrid's teen sensation striker Endrick and Barcelona's target man Vitor Roque. But or players are still available in Brazilian market.

Paris Saint-Germain already signed two of m — Sao Paulo defender Lucas Beraldo and Corinthians midfielder Gabriel Moscardo.

Here’s a look at some of or top young players in Brazilian league:

JOHN KENNEDY

21-year-old Fluminense striker scored his team's winning goal for its maiden Copa Libertadores title in vember and reminds fans of a younger Diego Costa; strong core, powerful shots and explosive temper. Olympique Lyon reportedly offered Rio de Janeiro club 10 million euros ($10.95 million) for him, but Fluminense refused. Kennedy sits on bench most matches because his team's starter in position, Germán Ca, was recently elected best player in Americas.

RIKELME

20-year-old Cuiaba left-back is fast, tall and can cross. He was a starter for his team most of season. Often compared to Renan Lodi, Rikelme scored one goal and had one assist in his latest Brazilian league match. Stats don’t tell it all about young footballer, though, as he also works as a playmaker. Portugal's Braga has reportedly made an offer for young defender, but it was rejected. Cuiaba says it wants at least 4 million euros ($4.383 million) to start negotiations for him.

THIAGO BORBAS

21-year-old Red Bull Braganti striker came from Uruguay's River Plate for 4.8 million euros ($5.23 million). Fans saw him struggle during first half of last year. But n he settled and scored nine goals in 33 matches in Brazilian league. Compared to Liverpool's Darwin Núñez, Borba started from bench most of season. Feyeord is reportedly interested in Brazil-based Uruguayan player.

WESLEY

20-year-old Flamengo right-back finally made fans hopeful y had found a replacement for veteran Rafinha, who left club in 2020. Wesley played 36 matches in Brazilian league, with one goal scored and one assist given. He has a lot of confidence, speed and intensive marking, as Cafu in his younger days. Local media reports Flamengo wants between 10 million and 15 million euros ($10.95 million to $16.43 million) for him.

STÊVÃO

16-year-old Palmeiras midfielder is regarded as one of Brazil’s most promising players for next number of years; “Little Messi” is his nickname. He wears number 10 in club’s under-17 team and scores goals just as easily as he assists. Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are reportedly watching him already. He can only leave Brazil after he turns 18 in April 2025.