Author: Amrit Santlani
Ever since Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, the PIF clubs backed by Saudi Arabia, started working their magic on the transfer market, it has become increasingly difficult for other clubs to match the spending power of the ultra-rich. Therefore, many powerhouses, such as Real Madrid, have begun to invest in young talent, as demonstrated by their recent signings of players such as Jude Bellingham and Guler.
Madrid’s strategy has helped them transition to a new era, and many other clubs are looking to follow suit. West Ham United are also looking to replicate the strategy by turning their attention to Brazilian youngster Rayan.
Rayan Vitor Simplicio Rocha, the 16-year-old who plays for Vasco da Gama, is fast becoming the “next big thing” in Brazilian soccer. The South American leagues continue to be a hotbed for European powers to pick out the best talent and turn them into world stars.
Barcelona recently signed Vitor Roque, Madrid already have Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes and Endrick will join them soon. That’s why West Ham are trying to approach Rayan, who is causing a sensation with his performances.
The teenager is also on Newcastle United’s radar and so the two Premier League clubs are ready to compete for the player, who could be available for 25 million euros plus a share of the sell-on fee.
When the bigger fish enter the race, it will be difficult for West Ham or Newcastle to match them. Both clubs have the financial power to complete the deal this summer, as West Ham recently sold Declan Rice for a British record £100 million, plus £5 million in add-ons.
Newcastle is not short of money after being financed by the Saudi PIF. Although Rayan is expected to stay in his home country until he turns 18, it’s likely that the two clubs mentioned above will want to close the deal as soon as possible.
Born in Rio, the youngster has been with Vasco since his early teens and has also represented Brazil at U-17 level. Rayan has already played two matches in the Serie A of the Brasileirão for the club.