Manchester United are one of five clubs who have held talks with the representatives of Santos centre-back Kaiky, according to ESPN Brasil.

The website claims that the Red Devils, Chelsea, Arsenal, Juventus and Ajax have been sending performance analysts to every one of the teenager’s games this season, and they are in “frequent contact” with his entourage.

Kaiky only made his senior debut for Santos back in February, in a 2-2 draw against Santo Andre, and he has since gone on to make 15 appearances for the first team.

The 17-year-old is highly rated, having captained Brazil at Under 16 level, and he won’t be available for a low price, despite Santos struggling financially due to the impact of the global health crisis.

ESPN claim Santos have yet to receive a direct enquiry for Kaiky, although they are aware that clubs are tapping him up. The defender currently has a €70m (£60m) release clause, and he has a contract until 2023, so there is no pressure to sell him.