Everton and Barcelona are set to rival PSG in the race to sign Brazilian wunderkind Andrey Santos.
According to a report from Le10Sport, Everton are among the clubs interested in the services of Andrey Santos. The 18-year-old defensive midfielder currently plies his trade with Vasco da Gama, but many expect him to move to Europe in the summer, in light of his blazing performances in the Brazilian top-flight.
Along with Everton, FC Barcelona are keen on securing the services of Andrey Santos while PSG are also involved in the race. They are looking to rope in the youngster ahead of the new season, expecting him to make a big splash in Europe.
A defensive midfielder by trade, Andrey made the jump to Vasco da Gama’s senior side at the start of the year. He has racked up 13 competitive appearances for the Brazilian outfit in total, impressing the onlookers with his work rate and aggression in the middle of the park.
At the age of just 18, the youngster has shown incredible resolve and maturity, making him one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Brazilian football.
?? 18-year-old Andrey Santos:
• Vasco da Gama & Brazil U-20.
• Operates both as a DM and as a CM, especially as a box-to-box.
• High athleticism and work-rate.
• Powerful defending.
• Offensive minded, always looks forward.
• Quality against/off-the-ball.In demand. ⏳ pic.twitter.com/yvAWMts95d
— #U19EURO (@RdScouting) June 14, 2022
Everton, for one, are determined to sign Andrey ahead of the new season as they look to beef up their options in the middle of the park. With Fabian Delph set to run out his contract at Goodison Park, the Toffees could use some reinforcements, especially in the holding midfield slot.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are in need for a young number six as they prepare for life without Sergio Busquets. The Spanish veteran is likely to leave Camp Nou in 2023, which could leave a massive void in the holding midfield area. Barcelona have been linked with a move for Ruben Neves this summer, but someone like Andrey Santos could prove to be a cheaper alternative.
However, the report suggests Barcelona and Everton’s pursuit of Andrey Santos may only lead to a dead-end, as PSG are the firm favourites to sign the young Brazilian.
The Parisian juggernaut are looking to fork out €8 million to sign the Vasco da Gama starlet, who is rated highly by their newly-appointed sporting director Luis Campos. Hence, a move to the French capital could be a possibility for the 18-year-old this summer, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
