Who is Gabriel Veron? The Brazilian teenager linked to Arsenal

Gabriel Veron is a player in demand with Everton and Arsenal in pursuit, according to recent reports.

ESPN reports that the 17-year-old Brazilian is being watched by both Premier League clubs - as well as Spanish giants Barcelona after breaking into Palmeiras' first team this season.

The Brazilian club reportedly turned down a £13.2million bid from Everton for their prize teenager, demanding double that price; a fee which may deter English clubs looking for a bargain.

Additionally - as per EU regulations - the young attacker would not be able to sign until his 18th birthday, meaning he would have to wait until September to complete a proposed move.

While speculation surrounding Veron is increasing, the real question is: Who is he?

The name

The crucial place to start, of course. Indeed, it's not 'Messi' or 'Pele' branded on the back of his shirt, but a recognisable name nonetheless.

And no, this is no coincidence: the Brazilian was actually named after Argentine icon Juan Sebastian Veron.

The teenager told FIFA.com in 2019: "It was our neighbour's idea. He'd always wanted a son but ended up with three daughters.

"So, when my parents couldn't decide on a second name for me [during the pregnancy] in 2002, our neighbour said: 'Why not call him Veron?'"

On to other details, then. Aged just 17, Veron broke into the Palmeiras first team, scoring two goals in four appearances to date.

The youngster joined Palmerias' youth squad in 2017 and within a year was the top scorer in the Mundial de Clubes de La Comunidad de Madrid Sub-17.

Veron made his league debut just a matter of months ago in November 2019, claiming two goals and an assist in his subsequent appearance to become the second-youngest player to score for the club.

Internationally, Veron frequently starts for Brazil's U17s. He scored three goals as they lifted the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup last September, and was awarded the Golden Ball.

Playing style

The attacker is clearly a goal threat - but during the U-17 World Cup ;he also created 18 chances - the most of any player. Furthermore, no player completed more dribbles (22) than Veron.

Speaking on his performances at the competition, former Brazil international Bebeto told Correio Brasiliense (via Goal): "He's a kid with enormous talent.

“I looked for more information about him and I was impressed once I saw him wearing the No.7 producing beautiful plays.

"I watched him score a goal dribbling from almost his own half before finding the net with a quality finish, calmly beating the opposition goalkeeper."

Suitability

Arguably, attack is not the area Arsenal are in most need of strengthening.

While Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette are both linked with potential exits, a more recognised forward would surely be the target - but Gabriel Martinelli's breakthrough may tempt the Gunners into signoing another young Brazilian.

Alongside the fearsome duo, Arsenal have Nicolas Pepe, Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson coming through.

Regardless, Veron certainly looks some prospect.