Liverpool's incoming head of scouting, Andrii Fedchenkov, could give the club an edge in the Brazilian transfer market. The Reds have agreed a deal to bring the Flamengo scout to Anfield in January 2027.
Fedchenkov, a Ukrainian, previously held similar roles at Shakhtar Donetsk and Cardiff City. He also spent two years as head of recruitment at Greek club PAOK and reportedly specialises in the South American and Japanese markets.
Having worked in Brazil's Serie A for more than 18 months, Fedchenkov brings valuable insight into the country's emerging talents. Here are five Brazilian teenagers who could become desirable recruits.
Ze Lucas – Cruzeiro midfielder
Cruzeiro's Ze Lucas, 18, is among the most ready-made prospects. He already has 69 senior appearances, mostly from his time at Sport Recife. Cruzeiro signed him in July on a five-year contract, considered long in Brazil for a player his age. Barcelona were linked with the midfielder before that move. He moved for a reported £3.5 million but is expected to command a higher fee now. He is a Brazil under-20 international.
Kaue Furquim – Bahia winger
Bahia's Kaue Furquim, 17, has been involved in Premier League-related controversy. Bahia, 90 per cent owned by City Football Group, were accused of acting as intermediaries for Manchester City. However, City's guilty verdict for spending breaches may change that dynamic. Furquim has two goals in 15 senior outings for Bahia and two in two for Brazil's under-18s.
Arthur Dias – Athletico Paranaense defender
Arthur Dias, 19, could join Liverpool's young centre-back group. His contract expires in December 2028 and reportedly has a £50 million release clause. He has 53 first-team appearances for Athletico Paranaense and two senior caps for Brazil. He helped the club gain promotion from Serie B last year.
Iago Machado – Corinthians defender
Iago Machado, 17, has made two senior appearances for Corinthians but has impressed in the under-20 team. His deal includes an £86 million release clause exclusive to clubs outside Brazil. Liverpool would have to wait until after February 2027, when he turns 18, to make a move. Brazilian broadcaster TMC has reported Arsenal have sounded out Corinthians.
Ryan Augusto – Red Bull Bragantino right-back
Ryan Augusto, 19, has seven caps for Brazil's under-20s. He has been sidelined with a knee injury but has continued his progress. His contract expires in January 2029 and is not reported to have a release clause, though his club reportedly wants to change that. Arsenal are alleged to have made informal contact over the right-back.
