Vasco on alert as full-back form dips, European market monitored | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama have raised the alarm over their defence after a poor derby showing by both starting full-backs against Flamengo. According to PaponaColina, the club are now monitoring options in Europe to address the slide.

Right-back Paulo Henrique is viewed as the most immediate technical concern. His form has dipped since the end of 2025, with costly errors in the Copa do Brasil semi-finals and in the finals against Corinthians. Despite renewing with Puma Rodríguez, the board continue to scan the international market to raise competition for the role.

Before confirming the Uruguayan’s continuity, the scouting department assessed European-based targets. Moreirense’s Dinis Pinto and Cape Verdean Wagner Pina, currently playing in Türkiye, were studied closely. The aim is to give Fernando Diniz reliable options who defend securely and support the attack.

On the left, finances and squad planning complicate matters. The sale of prospect Leandrinho and Victor Luís falling out of favour have left Lucas Piton overused, and his output has dipped. An offer worth four million euros, around R$ 24 million, from Besiktas of Türkiye was rejected as too low, though a significantly higher bid might be considered.

Given the risk of losing Piton and the need for genuine competition, Cuiabano has become the priority target. Plans led by Admar Lopes and Pedrinho state that if Piton is sold, Vasco would seek two starting-calibre left-backs to avoid makeshift solutions in a demanding calendar year.

Source: PaponaColina