According to journalist Ed Aarons, Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool have dispatched scouts to monitor the progress of 19-year-old German under-18 international midfielder Raul Paula.
Paula has been in outstanding form while playing for VfB Stuttgart’s reserve team this season, recording six goals and one assist in nine league matches.
He initially joined Stuttgart’s youth setup on a free transfer in 2017, and his recent performances may potentially lead to a significant financial gain for the German club.
After transitioning to the U17 age group in January 2020, Paula quickly adapted and showcased his skills, contributing four goals and five assists in 14 appearances.
Understand that Brighton and Liverpool have been scouting Germany Under 18 midfielder Raul Paula. He has six goals and two assists in the last nine games for Stuttgart's reserve side
— Ed Aarons (@ed_aarons) September 27, 2023
His impressive performances quickly caught the attention of the U19 team, and within just six months of joining the U17s, he made the leap to Nico Willig’s side.
Paula continued to shine, contributing ten goals and six assists in 23 appearances for the U19s, helping them secure a fourth-place finish in the Bundesliga South/South-west league.
His versatility is evident, as he can play as a forward or in the number 10 role, and even on the left flank when needed.
Clubs like Brighton and Liverpool are already closely monitoring his development, and it seems only a matter of time before top clubs from across Europe show interest in securing his signature.
Liverpool recently signed 30-year-old defensive midfielder Wataru Endo from Stuttgart in the summer, and they might consider returning for Paula if the young talent continues to impress.
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The attacker hasn’t made his competitive debut for Stuttgart yet, but that could change soon, given his impact on the first-team coaches.
In a recent friendly match against Swiss club St Gallen, he was among the goal scorers in an 8-3 victory, finding the net just seven minutes after coming on as a substitute in the 59th minute. This performance further highlights his immense potential.