Manchester City are monitoring the progress of Brazilian defender Lucas Halter, Sky Sports News understands.

The 17-year-old, who has attracted the interest of a number of Europe's top clubs, currently plays for Atletico Paranaense in the Brazilian Serie A.

Halter was part of the Brazil squad that finished in third place at the 2017 U17 FIFA World Cup after being knocked out by England at the semi-final stage.

If Halter does move to the Etihad Stadium, he will join a growing contingent of Brazilians with senior internationals Ederson, Gabriel Jesus, Fernandinho and Danilo already at the club.

City have also insisted defender John Stones will not be allowed to leave the club in the summer.

The England international has not featured for the recently crowned Premier League champions since returning from international duty to an abductor injury.

City have said Stones remains firmly part of Pep Guardiola's plans moving forward and will be part of the squad aiming to defend the title next season.