The Champions League

Barcelona revive interest in Monaco right-back Vanderson

Barcelona have been keeping track of AS Monaco full-back Vanderson and are considering a move this summer, reports Sport.

The Catalans enquired about the availability of Vanderson last summer, but Monaco were reluctant to sell him as they had signed him only seven months prior from Gremio. 

Barca failed to sign a right-back in the summer of 2022 after allowing Sergino Dest to join AC Milan on loan. Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde have been deployed at the right-back position this season despite being natural centre-backs.

Xavi has prioritised a right-back come the summer, and the Blaugrana believe Vanderson will fit into their style of play.

Barca also have a good chance to sign the Brazilian full-back, given that his agent is Deco, an ex-Barca player who also facilitated the transfer of Raphinha to Camp Nou in the summer.

Monaco asked for around €60 million last summer, and they are likely to persist with a similar fee for Vanderson, which could be a stumbling block for the Blaugrana.

The Catalans giants need to make a significant clearout in the summer to comply with La Liga’s FFP, which would enable them to sign new players.

Vanderson continues to be a pivotal player for Philippe Clement’s side, having racked up four assists in 30 appearances this season. He is also adept at playing as a wing-back.

Barca are looking at some high-profile names such as Benjamin Pavard and Joao Cancelo as possible right-back targets.

But the Catalans could miss out on both of them. Pavard’s contract expires in the summer of 2024, and he had previously declared his desire to represent the Blaugrana.

However, the French defender wants to continue with Bayern after seeing his role grow in recent times under Julian Nagelsmann. The Bavarians are planning for talks with the Frenchman soon over a new deal.

On the other hand, Bayern are yet to decide on the permanent transfer of Cancelo, who is currently on loan from Manchester City. The Bavarians are willing to sign him only if Man City lower the €70m buy-out clause.

A move for the Portuguese international has been ruled out by Barca due to his expensive valuation.

Source link

About Author