Manchester United eyeing Brazilian prodigy rated as one of the top 2009-born prospects

Manchester United have put together an impressive list of young signings since Ineos took charge of football operations, and the club are now showing interest in another emerging talent out of Brazil.

Ineos stepped into their role overseeing United’s football operations in February, and they’ve made a clear effort to target young players for the club’s future.

So far, Sekou Kone, Ayden Heaven, Diego Leon, and Cristian Orozco – soon to join – have all been brought in at just 18 years old.

Heaven has arguably made the biggest impression so far. At just £1.5 million, he already looks like great value.

Now it appears that Ineos could be lining up their next move, with reports pointing to a promising young player back home in Brazil.

Manchester United’s scouting team turns its attention to Rafael Belinho

United’s scouting network is always on the lookout for emerging prospects, and in Rafael Belinho, Jason Wilcox and academy director Stephen Torpey believe they’ve found a player worth pursuing.

That’s according to The Mirror, which reports that both United and Arsenal are keeping tabs on the Brazilian forward.

United aren’t alone in their interest. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are said to be monitoring the situation. Given that Belinho’s agent has previously facilitated moves from Croatia to Barcelona, the Catalan club is seen as a likely destination, especially with Deco reportedly impressed after recent meetings.

Borussia Dortmund have also entered the picture. The German club has already held talks with the player’s representatives.

The 17-year-old began making waves at Dinamo Zagreb before moving to NK Kustosija. Many within youth football circles consider him among the top talents born in 2009.

Belinho made the switch to Kustosija because he didn’t see his long-term future at Zagreb. Instead, he has his sights set on a move to one of Europe’s bigger clubs once he turns 18 next January.

Who is Rafael Belinho, the Manchester United target?

It’s no surprise that United have shown interest in Belinho, who brings a typically Brazilian flair to his game despite also holding a Croatian passport.

His full name is Rafael Gomes Cirino, and he operates primarily as an attacking midfielder or winger. He’s developed a reputation for his ball control and dribbling, skills honed during his time playing futsal.

While technical skill is his main strength, he also boasts impressive creativity and has a knack for scoring goals.

The fact that Deco has already started the pursuit of Belinho says a lot about what people think of him. He could be a smart long-term bet for United.