Manchester United scouts reportedly watched Shakhtar Donetsk forward Kaua Elias score a perfect hat-trick on Monday, as the club considers a move for the 20-year-old Brazilian.
Elias inspired his side to a 5-1 thrashing of Kudrivka in Lviv, impressing in front of scouts from some of Europe's biggest clubs, according to The Sun. United and Arsenal are both said to have taken in the performance, with an official bid now expected.
Scouts impressed by 'top-level' potential
Shakhtar are said to rate Elias at £30 million. The young striker has scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 39 appearances since joining from Fluminense in 2025.
United's scouts were tasked with observing Elias up close after assessments of his recent performances. It is claimed that Old Trafford bosses were told that the Shakhtar ace holds the 'potential to develop into a top-level centre-forward'.
It was also said that Elias would slot into United's system well, described as 'highly compatible with United’s press-heavy, fast-transition system'.
Competition for his signature
But United will not necessarily have it all their own way, with Arsenal reportedly monitoring the striker for several weeks. Elias is said to be open to a move to an elite European league.
The Premier League sides are set to face competition from AC Milan and Porto. Rossoneri chiefs are said to be weighing up a bid, and Elias' representatives have already received 'concrete signals' from interested parties.
United's transfer plans
Michael Carrick may have a vacancy in his forward line with only Benjamin Sesko recognised as an out-and-out forward among the senior squad. Joshua Zirkzee is also set to leave the club, with interest from Serie A side Juventus.
United moved quickly to improve their midfield with the additions of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans but require further improvements. With weeks of the transfer window remaining, the club have been linked to a third midfielder, a full-back and a striker.
Friday saw goalkeeper Altay Bayindir join Celta Vigo on an initial loan. The La Liga side can make the Turkey international's move permanent for £3.5m.
