Nottingham Forest could receive a significant boost in their pursuit of Corinthians midfielder, with the Brazilian youngster reportedly keen on making a move to the Premier League.
Both English clubs expressed interest in signing the 20-year-old during the summer transfer window but ultimately failed to reach an agreement with Corinthians.
Recent reports indicated that the Brazilian club are now demanding at least €30 million (£26m) for their highly rated midfielder following his first senior international call-up.
However, fresh developments from Brazil suggest that André Luiz has already identified England as his preferred destination should he decide to continue his career in Europe.
Despite his apparent interest in the Premier League, several issues at Corinthians could complicate any potential January transfer.
He Prefers Premier League Move
According to ESPN Brazil, André Luiz has privately informed people close to him that he would prefer a move to the Premier League in the future.
Although England is reportedly his first choice, the midfielder is not completely ruling out opportunities in other European leagues as he remains open to different possibilities.
His growing reputation could attract further attention from European clubs following his inclusion in Brazil’s squad for the November international friendlies against Japan and Singapore.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has handed the youngster his first senior national team call-up, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.
The development could also strengthen Corinthians’ negotiating position, particularly as the club already believes his market value has increased considerably since the summer.
A convincing performance in Brazil’s colors would potentially attract more interested clubs and further increase his asking price.
Corinthians Facing Two Major Issues Before January
Despite André Luiz’s apparent desire to move to England, a January transfer is far from guaranteed.
ESPN Brazil reports that Corinthians must first resolve two important situations that could influence the midfielder’s future.
The first concerns the club’s presidential election, which will result in the appointment of a new president. The change in leadership could have a significant impact on decisions surrounding player sales.
The situation is particularly important given the club’s previous handling of negotiations with AC Milan.
Another major factor is Corinthians’ battle to avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division. Their final league position could influence their willingness to sanction the departure of one of their promising players.
Consequently, interested Premier League clubs may have to wait until these issues become clearer before making concrete moves for the midfielder.
André Luiz Previously Offered to Sacrifice Money for AC Milan Transfer
Further details have also emerged regarding André Luiz’s failed attempt to join AC Milan earlier this year.
According to ESPN Brazil, Milan initially reached a verbal agreement with several members of Corinthians’ football department over a €17m (£14.7m) transfer.
However, the proposed deal was eventually blocked by club president Osmar Stabile, who reportedly faced pressure from political allies opposed to selling the midfielder.
Milan subsequently returned with an improved proposal worth €22m (£19.1m), consisting of €18m (£15.6m) in guaranteed payments and another €4m (£3.5m) in potential bonuses.
The offer covered 70 percent of André’s economic rights owned by Corinthians.
Interestingly, the midfielder was reportedly prepared to surrender his remaining 30 percent share to help complete the move to Italy. Despite his willingness, the transfer ultimately collapsed.
Nottingham Forest also attempted to sign him, submitting a €12m (£10.4m) proposal, but Corinthians rejected the offer and reportedly demanded between €15m and €20m.
With André now attracting international recognition, Corinthians demanding at least €30m, and the player reportedly favoring England, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest could face an expensive battle if they decide to revive their interest.
However, the unresolved situation at Corinthians means interested clubs may need to wait for greater clarity before making their next move.
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