Transfer Centre

Arsenal-linked Pablo Maia talks up Premier League move

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 17 February 2024

Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia hints that he is planning to move to the Premier League at some stage in the not too distant future.

Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia has suggested that he is planning to move to the Premier League at some stage in the not too distant future.

Arsenal, West Ham United and Fulham are believed to be among the English clubs interested in signing the 22-year-old.

Maia has said that he 'dreams of' representing a club in England's top flight, and it is thought that there could be offers during this summer's transfer window.

"I heard about an offer from an English club to Sao Paulo FC, and then another club inquired about a loan deal two windows back," Maia told the Daily Mail.

"The Premier League is played at the highest technical and intense level in the world, with players accustomed to the Champions League and World Cup.

Sao Paulo youngster Pablo Maia in October 2022. © Reuters

"It's a league that we dream of, set as a goal. Whenever I can, I watch the games and analyse how players in my position perform.

"My dreams are focused on my goals here at Sao Paulo. I'm sure that with our team's excellent collective performance, it will contribute to my individual performance.

"If offers come in the middle of the year and are good for the team and for me as a career project, that could happen."

Maia came through the youth system at Sao Paulo, progressing to the first team in 2022, and he has now made 126 appearances for the club, scoring seven goals and registering three assists in the process.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after the match on February 4, 2024 © Reuters

Towards the end of last year, a report claimed that Arsenal were considering making a move for Maia during the January transfer window, but he ultimately remained in Brazil.

The North London club's sporting director Edu is believed to be keen on Maia, with a move now potentially taking place during the summer market.

Maia signed a new long-term deal with Sao Paulo in April 2023, with his current terms due to run until December 2027.

However, there have been suggestions that the midfielder, who has won the Copa do Brasil and Supercopa do Brasil with his current club, could be available for as little as £10m.