---
title: "Antonio Conte set to monitor Thiago Maia at the Olympics"
canonical: "https://readchelsea.com/2016/08/04/antonio-conte-set-to-monitor-thiago-maia-at-the-olympics/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Sam Tabuteau"
section: "Chelsea News"
published: "2016-08-04T10:50:18Z"
modified: "2016-08-04T10:50:18Z"
---

# Antonio Conte set to monitor Thiago Maia at the Olympics

Antonio Conte is thought to be keen on securing the services of 19-year-old midfielder Thiago Maia and has reportedly sent out scouts to watch him play for Brazil at the Olympic games.

As reported by the [Mirror](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/chelsea-eye-15million-move-brazilian-8557467), Conte is thought to have already begun negotiations over a £15million move for the Santos youngster – with the player’s agent, Kia Joorabchian reportedly speaking to club about their interest.

Maia is also in line to take a 30% cut of any transfer fee negotiated, due to the fact that unlike most Brazilian youngsters Maia’s economic rights are solely owned by Santos and not any third-party investments.

Maia’s play style is mainly focused on the defensive aspect of the game – breaking up play from deep and then harnessing some of the famous Brazilian flair to set his team on the attack.

This could see him compete alongside Nemanja Matic, N’Golo Kante, Oscar, Cesc Fabregas and Nathaniel Chalobah for that coveted role as one of two midfield pivots.

At only 19 years of age, Maia has successfully cemented his spot in a Santos side that contains some of Brazil’s best young prospects.