Martim Fernandes, the highly rated 19-year-old right-back from FC Porto, remains on Arsenal’s radar, though Bayer Leverkusen are believed to have edged ahead in the pursuit according to Correio da Manha.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 19: Luis Suarez #9 of Inter Miami CF misses a chance, under pressure from Martim Fernandes #52 of FC Porto, as Claudio Ramos #14 of FC Porto attempts to make the save during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Internacional CF Miami and FC Porto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 19, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Fernandes has impressed under Martín Anselmi, starting both of Porto’s opening Club World Cup matches in the United States, where he also featured as a right-sided centre-back in a back three.
His performances have drawn attention across Europe, with Manchester City and Napoli joining the list of suitors.
Arsenal, who have focused much of their Portuguese scouting on Viktor Gyökeres, are understood to retain serious interest in Fernandes, though Leverkusen have intensified their interest.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 18: Martim Fernandes #52 of FC Porto speaks to journalists during the Mixed Zone/Press Conference ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group A match between Inter Miami CF and FC Porto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images
Porto president André Villas-Boas is adamant the defender will only leave for his €60 million release clause, viewing him as a cornerstone of next season’s rebuild.
With a contract until 2028 and growing international recognition, Fernandes is increasingly seen as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
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