Barcelona set sights on 18-year-old Brazilian centre-back who could cost €14 million – report

Barcelona set sights on 18-year-old Brazilian centre-back who could cost €14 million – report According to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo , Barcelona are keeping tabs on Atletico Mineiro centre-back Vitao. The 18-year-old defensive prospect has emerged as a potential target for several clubs across Europe, with the Blaugrana among his admirers. Vitao rated highly in Brazil Only 18 years old, Vitao has already established himself as a regular in the Atletico Mineiro first-team setup. So far, the teenage defender has racked up 18 senior appearances for the Brazilian club, even chipping in with one goal in the process. Meanwhile, the defender has also earned three caps for the Brazil U20 national team. Standing at 1.94m tall, Vitao is right-footed and offers a strong aerial presence at the back. His physicality, aggression, and immense potential have made him one of the most highly-rated young defensive talents in Brazil. Vitao (L) is a target for several European clubs. (Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images) As such, a number of top clubs across Europe have taken note of the 18-year-old Brazilian talent, including Barcelona. Barça eyeing defensive reinforcements Heading into the January transfer window, Barcelona are eagerly scouring the market for a new centre-back to ensure adequate depth in the squad. Injuries to the likes of Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Jules Kounde left the Catalans’ exposed in the position, leading to the sporting department prioritising a new signing in January. Ruud Nijstad of FC Twente has emerged as the priority target , but his €20 million price tag is seen as an obstacle. The likes of Alessandro Bastoni and Levi Colwill of Chelsea have also been linked but would command a significant fee. Vitao is valued at €14 million. (Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images) As such, Vitao has emerged as a potential option for the Blaugrana , although he is not a left-footed centre-back – which is the profile they are looking for. The 18-year-old defender has a contract with Atletico Mineiro until December 2028, and as per the report, he could be available for a fee of around €14 million. Apart from Barcelona, the Brazilian youth international is also said to be attracting interest from Real Madrid as well as Brighton & Hove Albion. However, the report suggests that Atletico Mineiro would prefer to retain Vitao at least until the summer of 2027. So, a January move could be difficult to pull off.