United, Liverpool in battle for new Brazil sensation

Brazil's latest football sensation, Roberto Firmino, could be set for a summer move to the English Premier League, according to media reports in Brazil.

The 23-year has been capped only four times for the Selecao but he is already being touted as a national team mainstay by Brazil's media.

The attacker's status as one of Brazil's emerging stars was confirmed in the team's friendly victories over France and Chile over the past week.

He gave an assist in the 3-1 defeat of Les Bleus in Paris on Friday and scored a coolly taken winner in the Selecao's 1-0 victory over Chile in London on Sunday.

Those performances - and his form for German outfit Hoffenheim - have made him a target of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal, ESPN Brasil reported on Monday.

It is understood Hoffenheim have placed a minimum price tag of 25 million euros on the attacking midfielder.

Firmino's rapid ascent has also caught the high of sponsors. On Monday the former Figueirense player signed a five-year contract with Adidas in a deal said to be worth 10 million euros.

Brazil coach Dunga has all but confirmed Firmino will be included in his squad for the Copa America, to be played in Chile in June and July.

"We already knew about Firmino," Dunga said after Sunday's victory over Chile at the Emirates Stadium. "I wanted to sign him when I was coach of Internacional in 2013. We knew about his quality and now he is showing that with the Selecao.

"He is a smart player with a knack for scoring because he positions himself well. Now he is making the most of his opportunity."

Firmino is not the only Selecao newcomer to attract the attention of major European clubs.

Porto right-back Danilo, capped 11 times, has been linked to Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United. Endi