Everton linked with Flamengo’s Brazilian youngster Reinier

Everton are believed to be in talks with Brazilian club Flamengo’s 17-year-old attacking midfielder Reinier.

Brazilian publication Globo has reported that the Blues are the latest club to join the race to sign the youngster, who has also said to have attracted interest from Manchester City, Juventus and Manchester United, as well as AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund

But a deal for Reinier, which could involve a fee of about £35 million, would see him not be eligible to make the move until January, when he turns 18.

FIFA regulations prevent South American players younger than 18 moving to European clubs unless their parents have moved to the same country.

Reinier has not yet made his senior debut for Flamengo, but is likely to appear at the under-17 World Cup in Brazil in October, representing the host nation.

He is taller than most attacking midfielders at 6’1″, and would become the latest player to join Everton’s growing South American contingent including Yerry Mina and Brazilians Bernard and Richarlison should he move to Merseyside. The interest in the player is likely a result of the enhanced scouting in that part of the world the Blues have been doing.

There are some concerns about a work permit for the player, but the size of the transfer fee that will be required as well as his participation in international competition for Brazil should ensure that the Toffees don’t undergo another fiasco as has happened with Henry Onyekuru and Santiago Sosa.

Reinier has a well-rounded skillset for a youngster his age, and as this report from Football Talent Scout shows, he will fit in best where Gylfi Sigurdsson currently roams, in the #10 spot.

He already has five goals in nine appearances for the Under-17 national side, captaining the team in all of them. An advanced playmaker that brings in his teammates, he is renowned for composure on the ball, with an excellent first touch, technique, and balance.

It is certainly very interesting to see the diverse range of players the Toffees have been linked with this summer, but it definitely shows Marcel Brands’ focus on youth and planning ahead beyond just the upcoming season.