Manchester United are set to win the race for Brazilian whizkid Douglas Costa. The Sun says the Gremio midfielder, 18, is attracting attention across Europe.

He has been hailed as the new Ronaldinho and his club have just turned down an £8million bid from Villarreal for his services.

United have been monitoring Costa through their South American scout - former centre-back Jaap Stam.

Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Liverpool are also tracking the rookie, who is due to talk to interested clubs at the end of the month.

Costa would not need a work permit to move to England because he has a Portuguese passport.

Chris Nathaniel, Costa's advisor, said: "The boy is special and loves the Premier League. He has a lot of offers to consider."