Manchester United will reportedly ramp up the efforts to sign AS Monaco defender Vanderson, a target for Barcelona this summer.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Sergino Dest and Vanderson are the two options Manchester United will decide between as the right-back reinforcement in the ongoing transfer window. And the Red Devils are ready to step up their efforts to sign the AS Monaco defender, with Barcelona also keen on signing him.
Vanderson joined AS Monaco from Gremio in January this year and has gradually risen in stature at Stade Louis II. The Brazilian defender is now the first-choice right-back for the Ligue 1 giants, turning out five times thus far this season, including in the failed qualification campaign for the UEFA Champions League.
The 21-year-old has made a remarkable impression on several European bigwigs despite only being in Europe for around six months. And Vanderson’s strong start to the season has captured the attention of Barcelona and Manchester United.
Signing a right-back has been a priority for Barcelona this month after bolstering the offensive unit with multiple additions. The Catalan giants have also reinforced their defence but need to sign a new right-back after Dani Alves departed from Camp Nou as a free agent. And with Sergino Dest being surplus to requirements at Camp Nou, Barcelona’s need to sign a right-back has accentuated.
Vanderson has thus emerged as a viable target for Barcelona after Cesar Azpilicueta snubbed them to remain at Chelsea. But the Blaugrana will have to fend off stiff competition from Manchester United to secure the services of the AS Monaco defender in the ongoing transfer window.
The interest from Manchester United stems from the unimpressive performances of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot, with the former not featuring in Erik ten Hag’s plans. The two right-backs are coincidentally on Barcelona’s radar this summer, and Manchester United will need a new option for the position.
According to SPORT, the Red Devils are ready to intensify their efforts to sign Vanderson, with Dest the other option ten Hag is considering. Meanwhile, Manchester United and Barcelona have a few other mutual targets, including Achraf Hakimi.
As for the common interest in Vanderson, Barcelona will hope that Dest becomes Manchester United’s top target. But the Red Devils are stepping up their interest in the Brazilian full-back for now and might launch the offensive to secure his services soon.
