Ferguson has tracked the young Brazilian attacking midfielder for over four years, and tried to sign him from Gremio 2 years ago, before the deal fell through and he moved to Shakhtar Donetsk.
The 20 year old was invited to watch the Bolton game as a guest of the club, and The Observer has been told Ferguson is still interested in bringing him to Manchester.
Shakhtar are believed to want at least £20million for the Under 20 international who helped Brazil win the South American Youth Championship in 2009, netting 3 goals.
