Arsenal are tracking one of Brazil’s latest teenage breakthroughs, with São Paulo youngster Lucca Marques now emerging on their radar ahead of the summer window.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has only just stepped into senior football. However, his rapid rise has already put him on the radar of European clubs.
Sport Witness sources indicate Arsenal are following his development closely and could move with a formal offer in the next transfer window.
That interest comes at a moment when Lucca Marques has started to build real momentum. His profile has grown quickly after a decisive contribution in the Copa Libertadores last year, where he scored a decisive late equaliser against Libertad.
The goal came at 46 minutes of the second half, securing qualification despite São Paulo playing most of the match with ten men.
Breakthrough moment accelerated Arsenal attention
Last year, Lucca Marques became the youngest player in São Paulo’s history to score in the Copa Libertadores. That alone would attract attention. Still, the context of the goal added further weight.
He was only 17 when he came off the bench in front of more than 40,000 fans at the Morumbi Stadium. Then he delivered under pressure, showing composure and timing beyond his age. As a result, scouts already monitoring him received fresh evidence of his potential in high-stakes situations.
Arsenal have built a reputation for identifying young talent early. Their recent recruitment strategy has often focused on players before they fully establish themselves at senior level. In that sense, Lucca fits the profile.
Although Borussia Dortmund are also aware of the player, Arsenal appear to be the club most closely engaged at this stage.
Profile and development path
Lucca Marques is a product of São Paulo’s academy, having joined the club at under-11 level in 2018. He has progressed steadily through the ranks, winning the U20 Brazilian Cup in 2024 and the Brazilian Youth Cup in 2025.
Primarily an attacking midfielder, he is comfortable operating from the left wing. He can also switch to the right when needed. His main strengths are close control and acceleration, which make him difficult to defend against in one-on-one situations.
Despite limited senior minutes so far, his inclusion in first-team matchday squads earlier this year shows the club’s trust in his development.
What happens next with Lucca Marques
São Paulo have no intention of selling Lucca Marques at this stage. Internally, he is seen as one of the next major talents to emerge from Cotia.
That stance could complicate Arsenal’s plans. Still, the Premier League side are expected to continue monitoring him closely over the coming months.
If his trajectory continues, interest is likely to intensify. And for Arsenal, the decision may come down to whether they move early or risk entering a more competitive race later.
🇧🇷 Luiz Henrique | Can’t stop Arsenal flirting
➡️ Wants to play for father-figure Mikel Arteta
🙏 “God willing, I have that opportunity”
💬 Has been speaking to the 2 Gabriels
↔️ Impressed with how Gunners use width
✍️ Latest come-and-get-me plea 👇 #afc— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) April 1, 2026
