Manchester United ready to splash €40m on Brazilian star

Manchester United have informed Brazilian club Palmeiras that they intend to make a €40 million offer for teenage star Gabriel Jesus, according to reports in Brazil.

UOL Esporte claims that United have made known their intentions to meet the 19-year-old forward's release clause, as they attempt to steal a march on rivals Manchester City, who were thought to be close to securing a deal for Gabriel.

Gabriel is earning rave reviews for his performances in Brazil, and is currently the top scorer in the Brasileirao championship, with 10 goals from 14 appearances.

The Brazil under 23 international is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in South America, and has been on the radar of several of Europe's biggest teams, including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan.

But last week it was reported that City had made a €32 million bid for the youngster, pulling ahead of all of the other interested clubs to become the favourites for his signature.

Now it seems that José Mourinho is keen to add Gabriel to his ranks, and hopes to gazump City's bid by offering more money.

Gabriel is a fast and skillful attacker who is capable of playing on either wing or centrally as a striker.

Despite their interest in Gabriel, United's primary transfer target is Juventus' Paul Pogba, with a world record deal for the Frenchman thought to be close to completion.