Arsenal's Opening Bid Rejected for Corinthians Right-Back Matheuzinho

Arsenal's first attempt to land Corinthians right-back Matheuzinho has hit a wall, with the Brazilian outfit rejecting their opening approach.

The Gunners appear ready for a defensive shake-up on the right flank this summer. Ben White has grown increasingly frustrated with limited minutes, watching from the sidelines as Jurrien Timber has claimed the starting berth – including a goal in Sunday's 2-1 victory over Chelsea. The situation has attracted the attentions of both Everton and Newcastle United, who see an opportunity to poach the England defender.

Should White depart, Arsenal will need to move quickly to secure a replacement. That's where Matheuzinho enters the picture. The 25-year-old has caught the eye of sporting director Andrea Berta, who has apparently been keeping tabs on the Corinthians man's progress throughout the campaign.

According to Brazilian sources, the São Paulo club have now turned down two separate proposals, with Arsenal among those rebuffed. The exact figures involved remain murky at this stage, though it's believed the Gunners could return with an improved offer down the line.

Matheuzinho boasts an eye-watering €100million release clause for overseas suitors – though Brazilian clubs can activate a significantly cheaper €50million exit option. The 25-year-old has established himself as one of South America's standout full-backs, though his lack of European football means Arsenal are unlikely to stretch anywhere near those figures.

The defender's contract runs until December 2028, and Corinthians are currently in negotiations to freshen terms with an enhanced salary package.

Given the financial hurdles involved, Arsenal may be better served looking closer to home. Newcastle's Tino Livramento represents the most tantalising prospect, though the Magpies will demand £70-80million before parting with their academy graduate. Brentford's Michael Kayode offers proven Premier League credentials and a throw-in that could prove a genuine weapon from set pieces. Sporting CP's Ivan Fresneda, meanwhile, presents an intriguing gamble – the 21-year-old Spaniard has flourished since his breakthrough at Real Valladolid back in 2022 and has long been monitored by the Gunners. A move for the teenager would reunite Arsenal with Sporting, the club they acquired Viktor Gyokeres from last summer.