Arsenal and Manchester United are among the clubs tracking Shakhtar Donetsk striker Kaua Elias, with the Ukrainian side reportedly willing to sell the 20-year-old Brazilian for around £30 million. The forward made a strong case for a move with a hat-trick in Shakhtar's 5-1 Ukrainian Premier League victory over Kudrivka on Monday, a performance watched by scouts from both Premier League clubs.
Scouts flock to watch Elias's hat-trick
According to The Sun, representatives from Arsenal and Manchester United were present for Elias's standout display, but they were not the only ones. AC Milan and Porto are also credited with an interest in the young forward, setting up a potential bidding war for his signature. Elias's hat-trick in the season opener underscores his goal-scoring ability, a trait that has made him one of the most sought-after young strikers in Europe.
Elias joined Shakhtar from Fluminense in early 2025, having already gained significant first-team experience in Brazil as a teenager. In his debut season in Ukraine, he made 36 appearances across all competitions, netting 11 goals, including strikes in both the Europa League and Conference League. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with the club's official social media accounts celebrating his arrival as their new number nine.
Shakhtar open to offers for the Brazilian
While signing Elias would represent a gamble for any top Premier League side, his potential and relatively modest price tag make him an attractive prospect. Shakhtar are reportedly open to negotiations, and the player's own comments suggest he is eager to continue developing. When he first moved to Ukraine, Elias outlined his strengths: 'I am a central forward with a great goal-scoring instinct, I can play well with the head, I perform well in and out of the penalty area, I can pick up speed quite easily. I am sure that with the skills I listed I will be able to benefit the team, because this is my main goal during my time at the club.'
Following his hat-trick, Elias expressed his delight: 'I'm delighted that the team won! We worked really hard during pre-season and claimed a very important victory, considering it's the start of the league campaign. Scoring so many goals brings an incredible rush of emotions. I'm really pleased with the way the match unfolded. As for my biggest motivation, it's the conversations I have with my family. Once again, I'd like to say that I'm happy with the team's result and with my three goals.'
Elias praises Shakhtar boss Arda Turan
Elias also had high praise for Shakhtar's head coach, former Atletico Madrid and Barcelona midfielder Arda Turan. 'He really is someone who understands exactly what we need most,' said the Brazilian. 'Whenever he has the chance, he calls someone over and talks to him, whether it's about personal matters or football. And that's not just with the players, but with everyone – the coaching staff, personnel and communications team. Most importantly, he knows how to show us the path we need to follow and the vision of football we should embrace, so that we don't just win matches, but win them while staying true to our values.'
The interest from Arsenal and Manchester United comes as both clubs look to bolster their attacking options. Arsenal have been linked with several strikers, while Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for a new forward. Elias's age and potential make him a long-term investment, but his immediate impact in Ukraine suggests he could adapt quickly to a more competitive league.
What's next for Elias?
With the transfer window still open, the coming weeks could be crucial for Elias's future. Shakhtar's willingness to sell at £30 million may tempt clubs to make a move, but competition from AC Milan and Porto could drive the price up. For now, Elias remains focused on his performances, having started the season in spectacular fashion. Whether he stays in Ukraine or moves to a bigger league, his hat-trick has certainly put him in the spotlight.
