Real Betis move to sign 24-year-old as replacement for Premier League-bound defender | OneFootball

Following the news that Chadi Riad is edging closer to leaving Real Betis after just one season, moves are already being made by Los Verdiblancos to secure a replacement.

Alongside Riad, Sokratis will be leaving Betis in the summer, and there are also doubts over the future of German Pezzella, who has been linked with a return to Argentina. Thus, it is imperative that centre-backs are signed for Manuel Pellegrini’s squad, and according to ABC (via Relevo), Betis’ leading target is Vitao.

Vitao currently plays for Brazilian side Internacional, on loan from Shakhtar Donetsk. Betis tried to do a deal for him in January, and they have already started preparations to re-ignite their interest for the summer.

A deal is not closed yet, but significant moves have been made in recent weeks. Barring any hitches, Real Betis should have their first summer signing tied up, and it’s a very necessary addition.