According to Goal Brazil, Arsenal are keeping an eye on Kaiky. The young Santos centre-back, who reportedly has a €70 million release clause, has attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, with Ajax also interested in his services. The player is expected to cost around €10 million, although it remains to be seen whether any of the interested parties are willing to take that risk.
Who Is Kaiky?
A product of the Santos youth academy that is famed for producing stars like Neymar, Rodrygo and Alex Sandro, Kaiky is regarded as one of the club’s most talented young players right now.
A centre-back by trade, the 17-year-old has recently made his breakthrough in the Santos senior side – making a total of nine competition appearances. The youngster has impressed the onlookers with his imposing 1.86m physique that makes him quite a giant, especially at his age.
However, what makes Kaiky such a sought-after talent in Brazilian football is his pace and technical qualities. He has a good sense of positioning and the ability to read the game that further enhances his defensive capabilities.
The youngster’s tall frame, meanwhile, also gives him a considerable advantage in headed duels, while his excellent passing simply makes Kaiky a well-rounded centre-back, who is more than ready to take the next step in his career.
Is Kaiky A Viable Option For Arsenal?
Arsenal are in a bit of a muddle as far as their defensive unit is concerned. Although Mikel Arteta does have a bunch of options available at his sleeves, it is fair to point out that David Luiz’s contract at the club expires at the end of the season while the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes and Pablo Mari are still yet to establish themselves as quality first-choice options.
After releasing both Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis in January, Arsenal, it seems, are in need of fresh blood in the defensive unit. The return of William Saliba from his loan spell at OGC Nice should serve as a massive boost. But in Kaiky, Arteta could find himself another talented centre-back, who is equipped with the ideal qualities that could help him thrive in England.
The Santos starlet does lack experience at the highest level of football at the moment, and may even need some time before he can become a first-team option for Arsenal, but for a fee of just €10 million, the Brazilian could indeed prove to be a bargain for the Gunners next season as the club continues to emphasise on the development of young players.
