Manchester United Set To Rival Newcastle United For This Brazilian Ace: Why They Must Step Up Interest | OneFootball

If a report from Spanish outlet Sport is believed to be true, Manchester United are targeting a winter move for Vanderson. But they are not alone in the race for the highly-rated AS Monaco star with Barcelona keeping close tabs after failing to secure his services earlier this summer.

Newcastle United, currently the world’s richest football club, are also eyeing a move for this Brazilian youngster. The 21-year-old right fullback progressed through the academy ranks of União Rondonópolis, Rio Branco-SP and Gremio before breaking into the latter’s senior side in December 2020. Soon he secured a starting role for his relentless runs and attacking expertise, something that saw Monaco splashing a fee of around €11m to secure his services earlier this year.

With his current contract set to expire in the summer of 2027, the Ligue 1 side have set a valuation of £52m for his suitors. Both Barcelona and Manchester United failed to secure a deal in August after the player’s stellar form with 2 goals and 3 assists in 22 appearances last season. Monaco boss Philippe Clement rates the young ace highly, and therefore, has relied on him so far this term across competitions.

Predominantly a right-back, Vanderson has also depicted his mastery as a wingback. He is destined to succeed in the European circuit and the growing interest from heavyweights has reignited the transfer talks already. He has a strong physique, loves to dribble down the flank, and holds exquisite footwork and swift skills; also his pace and flair help in attacking transitions from the deep.

Erik ten Hag

Why Manchester United Must Step Up The Chase

The Red Devils are aiming for a resurgence under new chief Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman has already reconstructed the defensive line partially by bringing in Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez, but he is still in the hunt for a new right-back with Aaron Wan-Bissaka not seeming to be in the manager’s plan. Diogo Dalot has made a strong start since earning a regular role ahead of the Englishman, but the club would require someone to challenge and cover their Portuguese star.

Having said that, the profile of Barcelona and their affiliation with the South American players must have placed them in the driver’s seat for any potential winter deal. Xavi’s decision of sending Sergino Dest on loan to AC Milan leaves the Catalans with no specialist right fullback in their senior squad.

Jules Kounde, more effective as a centre-half, is being deployed from the right, whereas the versatile Sergi Roberto continues to step in and deliver whenever called into action. Vanderson’s arrival should resolve this conundrum and it remains to be seen how the Manchester giants tie him down under the nose of Blaugrana.