Manchester City are watching Vasco da Gama superkid Paulinho.

Paulinho is rated the next big thing to emerge from Brazil, where some rate him ahead of Real Madrid signing Vinicius Junior.

The 17 year-old has attracted a £12m bid from Atletico Madrid - which was immediately rejected. Vasco rate Paulinho in the £25m class.

City are in contact with Paulinho's minders and preparing to deliver a rival offer.

The striker's agent Carlos Leite was recently in England to meet interested clubs.