Manchester United interest in Kaua Elias grows after perfect hat-trick
Manchester United interest in Kaua Elias has strengthened after club scouts watched the £30million-rated Shakhtar Donetsk striker score a perfect hat-trick.
United and Arsenal reportedly had representatives in attendance as the 20-year-old inspired Shakhtar to a 5-1 victory over Kudrivka. Elias scored with his head, left foot and right foot during the second half, providing an impressive demonstration of his varied finishing.
The Sun reports that United and Arsenal scouts delivered glowing assessments of Elias, with AC Milan and Porto also monitoring the Brazilian. Shakhtar are understood to value their striker at around £30m.
Manchester United interest in Kaua Elias comes with Zirkzee uncertainty
Elias has emerged as an increasingly interesting option while United consider the future shape of Michael Carrick’s attack.
Joshua Zirkzee continues to attract interest from Serie A, and his departure could leave another place available in Carrick’s forward group. United already have Benjamin Sesko as their leading centre-forward, meaning Elias would arrive with room to develop rather than immediately carrying the entire goalscoring burden.
The Brazilian joined Shakhtar from Fluminense in 2025 and has since registered 12 goals and three assists in 39 appearances, according to the latest report. His contract runs until 2029, putting the Ukrainian club in a strong negotiating position.
Elias’ latest performance will only increase attention. United’s scouts reportedly highlighted his technical quality, physical attributes and composure in front of goal after watching him first-hand.
Arsenal provide significant competition, while Milan and Porto are also interested. No United offer has yet been reported, so the story remains at the scouting stage rather than an advanced negotiation.
However, Manchester United interest in Kaua Elias now has fresh substance after their representatives witnessed arguably his best possible audition in person.
James Chettle is a journalism graduate from the University of Liverpool with a strong passion for football and digital sports media. A lifelong Chelsea supporter, James manages dedicated social media pages for fellow Blues fans, giving him a close understanding of supporter culture and the conversations that matter most to audiences. Alongside his Chelsea-focused work, he writes across the Dave.Sport network, covering West Ham United, Arsenal, Brighton & Hove Albion, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Manchester United. His journalism spans breaking news, transfers, match analysis and the wider stories shaping clubs across the Premier League.
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