Who is Bento? The Brazil goalkeeper wanted by Arsenal and Chelsea

Cameron Smith

• 9 Apr 2024 21:30 BST
• 4 min read

Brazil’s current crop of goalkeepers is immense and Chelsea are hoping to copy Liuverpool and Manchester City by signing an emerging shot-stopper from the South American nation.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have reportedly joined the race to sign Athletico Paranaense ‘keeper Bento, who is regarded as one of the most talented goalkeepers in world football.

The Blues signed both Djordje Petrovic and Robert Sanchez in 2023, but Bento could become their new number one if they are able to agree a deal with his current employers.

But, who is Bento and how good is he?

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What position does Bento play?

Bento is a goalkeeper.

How good is Bento?

Although he is unlikely to usurp Alisson or Ederson on a consistent basis in the Brazil national team, Bento is a fantastic goalkeeper and a big-money move to Europe seems inevitable.

He made his senior international against England in March 2024 after impressing for Athletico Paranaense in his homeland.

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In 62 games during the 2023 Brazilian season, Bento kept 22 clean sheets and conceded just 61 goals in all competitions as he blossomed into an outstanding shot-stopper.

Praise has been directed his way by Brazil football legend and former Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scholari, who recently admitted: “Every week, Bento (raises his price-tag) by €2 million. I think he’s the best goalkeeper in Brazil.

“There’s Lucas Perri and Santos. All goalkeepers of great quality. But Bento has stood out for a series of details.”

Bento is comfortable on the ball and is fantastic when dealing with any kind of shot. He may not be an established name outside Brazil, but he looks capable of emulating both Ederson and Alisson if he moves to the Premier League.

What clubs are interested in Bento?

Chelsea are the leading Premier League club interested in signing Bento, but they are set to face major competition from Serie A side Inter Milan, who are also keen on landing the Brazilian.

In addition, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Wolves and Benfica have also been linked with signing the Athletico Paranaense shot-stopper.

When does Bento’s contract expire?

Bento’s current contract at Athletico Paranaense runs until 31 December 2026.

How old is Bento?

Bento was born on 10 June, 1999. He is 24 years old at the time of writing.

What is Bento’s Instagram?

Bento’s Instagram account is @bento_matheus. He has 259k followers as of April 2024.