Arsenal are stepping up their interest in São Paulo teenager Lucca Marques, with the Gunners reportedly the frontrunners to secure the 18-year-old’s signature this summer — and honestly, it’s easy to see why.

Who Is Lucca Marques?

A product of São Paulo’s academy, Marques joined the club at under-11 level back in 2018 and has been climbing the ranks ever since, winning the U20 Brazilian Cup in 2024 and the Brazilian Youth Cup in 2025. Primarily an attacking midfielder, he’s equally comfortable cutting in from the left wing or switching to the right, with his close control and acceleration making him a nightmare to defend in one-on-one situations.

The Goal That Put Europe on Notice

Marques rose to prominence when he became the youngest player in São Paulo’s history to score in the Copa Libertadores, coming off the bench at 17 to net a dramatic late equaliser against Libertad in front of over 40,000 fans at the Morumbi Stadium — helping his side qualify despite playing most of the match with ten men.

Arsenal Leading the Race

Although Borussia Dortmund also have Marques on their radar, Arsenal have made the most concrete efforts towards signing the Brazilian U20 international. The Gunners’ strong South American network — built largely during Edu Gaspar’s tenure — gives them a real edge here.

Will the Deal Happen?

São Paulo have no intention of selling at this stage, viewing him as one of the next major talents to emerge from Cotia. But a serious offer from Arsenal could change that conversation very quickly.