Manchester United have sent scouts to watch Shakhtar Donetsk striker Kaua Elias, according to The Sun.
United could sign another centre- forward if Joshua Zirkzee leaves this summer. The Netherlands international has been linked with Juventus.
Man United have now added Elias to their list of targets. Their scouts reportedly watched the Brazilian score a perfect hat-trick in Shakhtar’s 5-1 victory over Kudrivka on Monday.
United’s talent spotters believe he can develop into an elite striker if given the ‘right environment and managerial backing are delivered.
Arsenal have also run the rule over Elias, while AC Milan and Porto are interested in the attacker.
Elias joined Shakhtar from Fluminense in February 2025, signing a five-year contract with the Ukrainian side.
He scored eight goals and provided five assists in 29 games across all competitions last season.
The Brazilian showed his directness in his first full season in the Ukrainian Premier League. He ranked joint-third and fifth for shots on target and total shots per game.
Elias’ game is built around movement and athleticism, but his finishing still needs polishing.
Shakhtar value the Brazil-born youngster at around £30 million, a sizeable fee for a player unproven in any of the top seven leagues in Europe.
United would be better served targeting an experienced striker to provide cover or even rival Benjamin Sesko.
Sesko is not yet a finished product, and having two young centre-forwards could prove risky for a club aiming to fight for major honours next season.
If the Red Devils do not have the budget to sign a quality attacker, then the argument to keep Marcus Rashford becomes more compelling.
The England international can operate across the frontline, giving Michael Carrick’s side greater tactical flexibility and quality.
Stats from Sofascore