Barcelona have identified Monaco’s Vanderson as their number one right-back target, but they have asked the youngster to wait a year before moving to Catalonia. Xavi wants to strengthen his back-line this summer by bringing in an orthodox right-back, having used central defender Jules Kounde out of position for most of this season. However, the Catalan giants cannot afford to buy the Monaco star right now due to Financial Fair Play regulations, despite offloading some of their biggest earners. Barcelona want to bring Lionel Messi back to the club and have also offered a contract to Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan, though both players have received mammoth proposals from Saudi Arabia.
Vanderson is on the radar of both Barca and Manchester United, with the Red Devils also big fans of the Brazilian. However, United have other transfer priorities they want to focus on first, such as wrapping up a deal for Chelsea contract rebel Mason Mount and securing a new striker. Once these have been achieved, United are then expected to focus on upgrading the right-back position and are keen on Vanderson.
Barcelona’s hierarchy are trying to convince the 21-year-old to snub any approaches from the Premier League and want him to stay at Monaco for one more season. In a year’s time, Barca hope to be in a position to start splashing the cash and will renew their efforts to sign him. Deco, who is set to be appointed as Barcelona’s new sporting director, recommended Vanderson to Barca 18 months ago and remains a massive fan of the Brazilian. Xavi will still need a new right-back for the 2023-24 season and Barca have set their sights on securing a loan deal for Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo. City want straight cash, which does not work for Barcelona, and they are trying to convince the Premier League champions to soften their stance, though Arsenal are also keen on the Portugal international and want to bring him to the Emirates.