Chelsea and Arsenal are both interested in Corinthians central defender Iago Machado, according to Time do Povo.
The talented teenager has been on the radar of top European clubs since 2025, but interest intensified earlier this year.
Scouts from Chelsea and Arsenal closely monitored the 17-year-old during the prestigious Copa Sao Paulo de Futebol Junior (Copinha).
Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich have since joined the growing list of European clubs tracking his rapid development.
Machado’s rise has accelerated at Corinthians following the appointment of manager Fernando Diniz, who promoted the teenager to the first-team squad.
Diniz showed faith in the youngster by handing him starts in high-profile Brasileiro matches against Flamengo and Fluminense.
Machado adapted quickly to senior South American football and earned rave reviews from his manager.
Chelsea’s recent recruitment has featured several South American prospects, while Arsenal are looking to leverage their strong scouting network in Brazil.
However, both clubs will need to be patient, with Machado’s representatives making it clear that his immediate focus is to remain in Sao Paulo.
Machado’s representatives are prioritising his development as a regular in the Corinthians first team before considering any overseas move.
FIFA regulations prevent non-European players from making international transfers until they turn 18, giving Corinthians crucial leverage as they look to secure Machado to a new contract.
With his reputation growing across South America and Europe, Machado’s development under Diniz will be closely watched in the coming months.
