That’s according to The Sun who say the Premier League heavyweights are stepping up their chase for the 16-year-old.
It’s claimed he was watched by scouts from both clubs this summer and impressed.
Securing his signature won’t be cheap, though.
Santos already value their prized asset at around £37.5m.
The Sun say Arsenal and United aren’t wasting any time as they look to get him on their books.
The duo have both held transfer talks with Alberto’s agent.
A source told the paper: “He is the new star of Brazilian football.
“He is very exciting and a lot of teams are looking at him.”
“United and Arsenal are very keen on Yuri.
“They watched him when Brazil played in England earlier this year.
“He has great technique and an eye for goal.
“The reports across the board have been positive about him.
“His agent has been contacted and told by both the Premier League clubs they will be watching him over the coming months.”
