Brazil's under-20 coach Alexandre Gallo has embarked on a European tour aimed at halting an exodus of talent to rival nations.

Gallo's first stop is Portugal, where he is currently in talks with 19-year midfielder Diego Lopes, who has impressed with top-flight outfit Rio Ave this season.

The move comes just months after Brazil-born Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa turned his back on the Selecao in favor of his adopted country Spain.

"We have some great players who have the chance to play for European teams," Gallo told Sportv.

"We are opening up the possibility for Diego Lopes to play for Brazil's national team.

"When we put the shirt in front of him we believe he will opt to play for the Selecao."

Gallo will also visit players in England, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Italy and Spain in the coming days.

Other Brazil-born players to have switched nationality in recent seasons include Pepe (Portugal), Deco (Portugal) and Marcos Senna (Spain).