Venê Casagrande covered Rodrigo Muniz’s transfer very closely, so we caught up with the Brazilian football journalist to get his thoughts on Fulham’s new striker.
What sort of forward is Muniz?
He is an area forward, as we like to say here in Brazil. A born centre forward. He is a good header of the ball, with good finishing power. Although he is tall and strong, he is not slow. In addition to being a good finisher, he has a tactical notion. He will evolve a lot in English soccer.

With lots of interest in his services, why do you think he chose Fulham?
In addition to Fulham, Middlesbrough also tried, Atletico Madrid, Al Nasr, from the United Arab Emirates. Several tried, but I think the project presented by Fulham was the one that pleased him the most.
What influence did Marco Silva have in convincing him to join?
Marco Silva was a key player in this story. He talked to the player. This helped a lot in the choice. Think about it yourself: playing in England, in a structured team, knowing that you will be used, having a good financial offer and having visibility. A better choice than this is impossible. Marco Silva wants to do to Muniz what he did to Richarlison. This is what Marco Silva said to the player and his managers.
He's still such a young player, too…
Young, and with a great future.
I dare say that he will be joining the Brazilian national team soon.
Venê Casagrande
Brazilian Football Journalist
Do you think he will have benefitted from training and playing alongside Gabriel Barbosa?
Not only with Gabriel, but with Pedro, [Giorgian de] Arrascaeta, Bruno Henrique, among others. Flamengo's cast makes anyone grow.
What does the Brazilian media make of Rodrigo Muniz’s transfer to Fulham?
It was a great deal. Good value for Flamengo, and Fulham could certainly sell in the future for a higher value than they paid. A good operation for all sides.

The English Championship is very different to the Brazilian top-flight – how do you see Muniz adapting?
I think the fact that Marco Silva speaks the Portuguese language can be a facilitator for him. It can be difficult at first, but Rodrigo Muniz is a player who has great adaptability. It was like that at Flamengo, when he left a small town to pursue his dream.

And finally, how do you think he will do in England and throughout his career?
I'll repeat: Rodrigo Muniz has the footballing ability to make the Brazilian national team. He will grow a lot and it won't be long before he shines in the Premier League.
You can follow Venê on Twitter @venecasagrande.