Brazil star hands Barcelona and Man Utd MAJOR transfer boost

Cameron Smith

10 Sept 2023 18:47 BST
4 min read

AS Monaco and Brazil defender Vanderson has admitted that interest from Barcelona and Manchester United is “fantastic” as he continues to be linked with a Ligue 1 exit.

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The 22-year-old only joined Monaco last year, but he has been heavily touted for a move away after his excellent form in the French top flight.

Vanderson’s performances for Monaco earned him his first senior cap for Brazil in June and he is currently with the national team during the September international break.

The right-back’s contract at Monaco does not expire until 2027, but Barcelona and Man Utd have both expressed their interest in signing the Brazilian, something that has excited Vanderson.

“It’s great to hear Barcelona and United ‘love’ you”, the defender said, as per Diario AS.

“It’s fantastic to know your name is being mentioned by the big clubs. But, now I’m focused only on Monaco.”

Vanderson to leave Monaco?

While Vanderson has stated that he remains committed to Monaco, his comments suggest that a move to Camp Nou or Old Trafford is on his mind and would be something he is open to.

Barca signed Joao Cancelo from Manchester City on Deadline Day, but the Portugal international has only arrived on a one-year loan deal, meaning Xavi may look to sign a permanent right-back in 2024.

As for Man Utd, Erik ten Hag has both Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot to call upon, but the Red Devils have been linked with several right-backs over the past 12 months, suggesting the Dutchman isn’t quite convinced by his current options.

Vanderson has made 65 appearances for Monaco since joining from Gremio for €11 million in January 2022; he has scored four goals and provided nine assists during that time.

He currently has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €24.2m, which has risen from €4.5m when he joined the Ligue 1 side.