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Kaua Elias Man Utd: Manchester United have entered the race for Shakhtar Donetsk striker Kaua Elias after an impressive scouting mission in Ukraine. Scott Trotter of the Manchester Evening News, citing a report from The Sun, revealed that United and Arsenal scouts watched the Brazilian score a perfect hat-trick during Shakhtar’s 5-1 win over Kudrivka in Lviv.
Kaua Elias Man Utd: Premier League giants battle for £30m striker
That display appears to have left a strong impression. United’s recruitment team reportedly believes the 20-year-old possesses the qualities to develop into an elite centre-forward. Internal assessments even described him as an ideal fit for Michael Carrick‘s high-intensity pressing style and quick attacking transitions.
There is a clear reason behind United’s growing interest. Benjamin Sesko stands as the only recognised senior striker after Joshua Zirkzee moved closer to a Juventus switch. Although Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have already arrived this summer, Carrick still wants another striker before the transfer window closes.
Arsenal continue to monitor the situation after tracking Elias for several weeks. AC Milan and Porto have contacted the player’s representatives as well, adding extra competition. Shakhtar currently value the Brazilian at around £30 million. Since joining the Ukrainian club from Fluminense in 2025, he has recorded 12 goals and three assists across 39 appearances.
Why Kaua Elias Man Utd looks the logical move
From a football perspective, Manchester United make much more sense. Carrick wants pace through the middle, relentless pressing and a forward capable of stretching defensive lines every time possession changes hands. Elias naturally plays that way. He attacks space aggressively, strikes the ball cleanly with either foot and willingly chases defenders for ninety minutes.
His record before leaving Brazil explains why Europe’s biggest clubs have started paying attention. During the 2025 season with Fluminense, Elias scored 13 goals and supplied three assists in 34 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A matches while adding four more goals in 10 Copa Libertadores appearances. Those numbers established him among South America’s brightest young forwards while strengthening his reputation with Brazil’s Under-20 side.
Arsenal face a different problem. Mikel Arteta already needs proven quality in areas that require immediate attention, especially after William Saliba’s injury increased the demand for defensive cover. A top-class left winger still appears a bigger priority as well.
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Elias possesses enormous potential, yet parts of his game still need polishing. Tight-space decision-making, short passing under pressure and combination play inside compact defences remain developing areas. Old Trafford offers room for gradual growth inside Carrick’s direct system. Arsenal need someone ready to deliver from day one. Spending £30 million on another development project simply doesn’t match their current priorities.