Ligue 1 right-back opens up on links to Barcelona, Man United: “It’s great to hear”

While Barcelona signed Joao Cancelo to reinforce their right-back position this past summer, he was not the only name considered.

Other players such as Juan Foyth and Ivan Fresneda were also in consideration while recent reports revealed that even Atletico Madrid’s Nahuel Molina had been on the club’s agenda.

Another player who has been linked with Barcelona in the recent past to reinforce the right-back slot is AS Monaco’s Vanderson.

The Brazilian defender has been on the club’s shortlist since 2022 with new sporting director Deco having recommended his signing back when he was still an advisor.

Vanderson excited about Barcelona links

Reports in June suggested that Barcelona plan to revisit their interest in Vanderson come 2024.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have also shown an interest in the 22-year-old Brazilian talent, something that admittedly excites the youngster.

Talking about the links to Barcelona and Manchester United in a recent interview, Vanderson said (h/t AS): “It’s great to hear that Barça and United want you. It’s great to know that your name is being mentioned by the big clubs.”

However, he added that he is currently fully focused on the new season with Monaco, saying: “We are starting the season well with Monaco, now I’m just concentrating on that.”

Will Barcelona move for Vanderson?

Barcelona have reinforced the right-back position with Joao Cancelo, but the Portuguese international has only joined a season-long loan deal.

There was a permanent purchase option in the deal but was dropped from the agreement due to potential Financial Fair Play issues.

As such, there is no certainty that Cancelo’s transfer will be made permanent next year, which could leave the door open for Barcelona to consider a younger option at right-back such as Vanderson.