Exclusive: Barcelona place €20m Ligue 1 defender at the center of plans to strengthen the defensive line | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have enjoyed a brilliant season under Hansi Flick, wrapping up a domestic treble and also reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League. However, when it mattered the most, their lack of squad depth in key positions came back to haunt them.

Against Inter Milan, in the second leg, Barcelona started the game without three of their regular starters – Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, and Robert Lewandowski. One can only guess what would have happened had the trio played that game.

Thus, the focus for the upcoming season has to be improving the squad depth in key areas to give Hansi Flick the artillery to compete in all competitions next season. For the right-back position, Deco seems to have earmarked AS Monaco defender Vanderson.

A Brazilian right-back wearing a Barcelona jersey?

Sources have told Sempre Barca that the Catalan club has placed the 23-year-old Brazilian right-back at the center of its plans to strengthen the defensive line, as the sporting director Deco considers him the perfect fit for the club’s playing style.

Deco also has the blessing of Hansi Flick, who would love to add Vanderson to the squad and has already approved the potential transfer of the €20 million-rated full-back.

Vanderson compared to Ligue 1 U-23 full-backs. (Source: Data MB)

However, the Spanish club is not alone in its interest in the South American, with Premier League clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City also monitoring the situation. However, one key factor in Barcelona’s favour is the player’s desire to wear the Blaugrana.

Sempre Barca have learnt that AS Monaco are demanding €35 million to part ways with the full-back, and Barcelona are studying the financial formula that they can use to make this move happen. It also helps that the English clubs are not actively looking at Vanderson as they have other preferred targets.

Vanderson offers something very different to Jules Kounde. (Source: Data MB)

What do the numbers say?

Vanderson has a contract with Monaco until June 2028. He has been ever-present this season, playing 40 games and scoring two goals and providing five assists. He is still young and has a lot to learn, and could benefit from playing alongside an experienced Jules Kounde.

The 23-year-old ranks 2nd in interceptions and long passes, 3rd in long passes completed, and 4th in defensive duels, defensive duels won%, and possessions won when compared to other Ligue 1 full-backs this season. [Source: Data MB]

If Deco can craft a financially viable deal, and with Vanderson keen on the move, this could be one of the smarter reinforcements of the summer. Young, tactically versatile, and eager to grow, he would offer Hansi Flick a much-needed boost in a position that is vital to the system, and it remains to be seen how it plays out.