Manchester City has emerged as the frontrunner to sign Brazilian young gun Rafael de Souza Rodolfo.

Known simply as Pernao, the 16-year old striker had been closely linked with Chelsea but it seems the influence of City's Robinho has given Mark Hughes the edge.

Pernao is still yet to play first team football with Fluminese but has attracted plenty of interest from clubs around Europe.

Hughes is confident he will land the starlet for £3million after inviting him to England last week.