Report Gustavo Varela to get first senior Portugal call after 8 goals for Monza

Monza striker Gustavo Varela has been an unexpected sensation with eight goals in eight Serie A games, so it’s reported Portugal will call him up for Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales.

The centre-forward was a big investment for newly-promoted Monza in the summer, as he was snapped up from the Benfica B team for €2.5m plus up to €1m in add-ons.

He has more than paid for that fee, scoring eight goals in as many Serie A games, plus two in his only Coppa Italia appearance.

Gustavo Varela ready for Portugal

According to O Jogo, Varela has also now caught the eye of Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, who has been very impressed with his performances.

It is reported that the 21-year-old received notice he will be in the squad for the Nations League games against Denmark on November 14 and Wales on November 17.

He had spent last season on loan from Benfica at Gil Vicente, scoring just seven goals in 33 matches, so has already surpassed that tally in a more difficult league like Serie A.

The forward already represented Portugal at various youth levels, including four goals in seven caps for the Under-21 side.