Brighton and Everton are both interested in Atlético Mineiro youngster Vitão, and things could start moving fairly quickly for the 18-year-old defender.
The two Premier League clubs have their eyes on one of Brazilian football’s emerging talents. However, Brighton appear to be a little further ahead, having already sent scouts to watch him in person.
That trip didn’t exactly go to plan. As we covered at the time, Vitão was sent off against Grêmio on Saturday, after VAR upgraded his yellow card to red.
Still, the Seagulls apparently liked what they’d seen enough to consider taking the next step. They’re now expected to be the first to make an offer. And with Everton also interested, Atlético could soon have a decision to make.
Brighton expected to make first move ahead of Everton
Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola reports that both English clubs are keen on Vitão, who only broke into Atlético’s first team earlier this year.
Brighton are currently better positioned in the race. Nicola says they’re preparing an offer of around €14m (£11.7m), hoping to bring the centre-back to England in January.
Everton haven’t reached that stage, at least as far as the reporting goes. Their interest is there, but there’s no indication of a bid being prepared.
The Toffees aren’t the only ones watching developments either. Real Madrid are also monitoring Vitão, although the Spanish club haven’t made any formal approach.
For now, Brighton have the advantage of having watched him up close. Everton’s next move is less clear. And the Brazilian club’s contract situation could make things interesting for both.
Atlético’s contract problem gives English clubs something to think about
Vitão has become an important part of manager Eduardo Domínguez’s defence despite being just 18. He’s already played 18 senior matches this season, scoring once.
Atlético would understandably prefer to keep control of his future. They’ve been trying to negotiate a new contract, but those talks have stalled in recent weeks.
His current deal runs until December 2028, with a release clause of €20m (£16.7m) for clubs abroad. That’s €6m (£5m) more than Brighton are reportedly preparing to offer.
There’s also the question of his economic rights. Atlético hold 80%, while the remaining 20% belong to the player and his representatives.
A new contract would give the Brazilian club the opportunity to raise that release clause. Without one, the existing figure stays in place.
Now Brighton appear ready to test their position first. Everton, meanwhile, have been named among the interested clubs but have yet to show their hand.
For a defender who only made his senior breakthrough this year, that’s already quite a bit of attention.
