Arsenal and Man Utd target moves to Benfica

Arsenal and Manchester United target Marcos Leonardo is set to join Benfica from Santos this month, according to Record.

The Brazilian striker had a top 2023 season with Santos, scoring 21 goals from 50 appearances across all competitions.

Despite his efforts, Santos suffered a historic relegation and they have now agreed to sanction his departure to Benfica.

The Portuguese outfit have accepted to pay €18m for the striker and a formal agreement has already been reached for him.

Leonardo has also agreed terms for the transfer and he is expected to travel to Lisbon to undergo his medical and sign a contract.

The news is a huge blow for Arsenal and United, who were keeping a close eye on his progress over the course of the previous year.

The Gunners in particular were looking into a formal move, but Benfica have been rather quick in securing a deal with Santos.

As part of the transfer, Santos will get 10 per cent of any profit made from Leonardo's future sale.