Arsenal's £3million swoop for Sao Paulo forward Marquinhos is heading towards a bizarre legal battle as it emerged the teenager has already signed a pre-contract agreement with Wolves.
The 19-year-old, who has represented Brazil Under-17s, had been expected to complete a move to the Emirates this summer.
But the deal is now under a cloud as it emerged Marquinhos has already inked a pre-contract agreement to join Wolves.
Sources close to the deal have indicated that Sao Paulo, despite the agreement between Marquinhos and Wolves, offered the winger to the Gunners for a small fee.
Arsenal moved quickly to strike a deal with Marquinhos and had been expected to wrap up the transfer early this summer.
As a 16-year-old, the player signed a five-year deal with Sao Paulo that was due to expire in 2024.
However, FIFA rules only allow underage players to sign three year contracts, which effectively makes the final two years of his deal void meaning he is a free agent this summer.
Wolves believe they have a legally binding agreement for Marquinhos to join them when his contract expires later this summer.
Sportsmail understands Marquinhos' contract at Sao Paulo is due to expire on July 12, with his Wolves deal scheduled to kick in on July 14.
But it is claimed that Sao Paulo, in hope of securing a fee for a player who was about to leave for nothing, opened talks with Arsenal.
As a result Wolves are seeking legal advice on the matter ahead of potential court battle that could have implications for Marquinho’s protracted move to Arsenal.
Legal action against Sao Paulo, Arsenal and the player are all options Wolves are understood to be considering.
Wolves and Arsenal were contacted for a response last night.