Manchester City have reportedly submitted a big bid for Brazilian youngster Yan Couto with a view to sealing a deal in the summer.
The 17-year-old, who plays for Coritiba in his homeland, has been tipped for a bright future by South American scouts and both Arsenal and Barcelona have already expressed interest.
The Gunners are said to view Couto as a long-term replacement for Hector Bellerin and had been working towards a deal valued between £4m and £5m.
According to Globoesporte, however, City have now made their interest known and have made an initial offer of £7.5m, potentially rising to as much as £12.5m.
Couto - a World Cup winner at Under-17s level - is not expected to depart Coritiba until he turns 18 in June.
