Barcelona Identify This Ligue 1 Ace As A Target: Should Xavi Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Sport claimed that Barcelona have identified AS Monaco ace Vanderson as a target. It has been revealed that the Catalan giants are eyeing a move to land the Brazilian talent during this summer transfer window.

Vanderson’s Impressive Run Of Form In French Football

Vanderson is experiencing a solid campaign at the French club as he has put in a few impressive displays on the right side of their defence. The 21-year-old has registered one goal and five assists in 35 matches for Monaco this season on all fronts.

The Brazilian sensation has given a good account of himself by averaging 2.6 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.7 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after making 78.4% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at the Stade Louis-II is set to run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, Barcelona will have to pay a big fee if they want to secure the services of the Brazilian talent in this off-season.

Monaco’s Brazilian defender Vanderson celebrates after scoring a goal during the French L1 football match between AS Monaco and RC Strasbourg Alsace at the Louis II Stadium (Stade Louis II) in the Principality of Monaco on April 2, 2023. (Photo by Valery HACHE / AFP) (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Should Barcelona Boss Xavi Move In For Vanderson?

Vanderson is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team when defending inside his half. He usually clears the danger when needed and can make some driving runs with the ball on the right flank.

The Brazilian right-back has got the vision to create a few decent plays for his teammates in the opponent’s half. He is primarily a right-back but can also fill in as a right-sided wide player if asked to do so.

We can expect Vanderson to add more quality to Barcelona‘s backline. He is good enough to nail down a regular starting spot in Xavi’s first team at the Nou Camp.

At 21, the future is quite bright for Vanderson. Therefore, Barca should try everything they can to lure him to Catalonia when the transfer window reopens later this year. However, it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian whizkid can make a smooth transition to life in La Liga football if the Catalan club end up signing him.