Arsenal enter talks to sign 25yo Brazilian star, £35m deal could be agreed

Arsenal have established contact with the representative of Botafogo midfielder Danilo ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Globo Esporte.

The Gunners are likely to enter the transfer market for a new central midfielder, and reports claim that they are closely monitoring Danilo alongside several clubs.

The Champions League finalists have also contacted Danilo’s staff, and the midfielder could make a quick return to Europe following the World Cup this summer.

The 25-year-old signed for Botafogo from Nottingham Forest only last year, but his brilliant form in 2026 should see him at the World Cup with Brazil under manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Botafogo are prepared for a big-money sale after the global tournament, and could hold out for £30-35 million to part ways with their prized asset in the summer transfer window.

Arsenal could return for long-term target Danilo

The Gunners were interested in signing Danilo during his time at Palmeiras. He ended up joining Nottingham Forest, where he endured a mixed spell.

The midfielder arrived at the Tricky Trees when they were battling Premier League relegation. He played the majority of their games during the 2023/24 campaign.

Last term, the Brazilian lost his starting spot with the arrival of Elliot Anderson and competition from elsewhere, and was largely limited to substitute appearances.

Danilo returned to Brazil with Botafogo last summer and had a tough second half to the 2025 season, having picked up a couple of untimely hamstring injuries.

However, he has started the 2026 campaign on a high note. The midfielder has primarily played as a number eight but has also occupied defensive and attacking roles.

Danilo has registered 10 goals and three assists from just 22 appearances this season. He has an exceptional shot-to-goal conversion rate of almost 30 percent.

He has also made five recoveries and 1.5 tackles per outing. Danilo is enjoying the prime phase of his career, and his stock could rise with a good World Cup showing.

Arsenal have not yet spoken with Botafogo, but initial discussions with his representative suggest a formal approach could be made during this summer’s transfer window.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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