Update in Everton’s Chase For Brazilian Right Back: Can Moyes Still Win The Race? | OneFootball

Brazilian radio station Tupi FM reports that Atlético Madrid now lead the chase for Botafogo right-back Vitinho. This development leaves Everton trailing in their wake. Everton have monitored the 26-year-old defender closely as they sought reinforcements for their depleted backline.

Everton slip behind in pursuit of Brazilian defender Vitinho

However, the Spanish giants have seized the initiative. Everton scouts continue to observe the situation. Meanwhile, professionals from Atlético Madrid have intensified their tracking of the player. They want to determine his suitability for their tactical setup.

Tupi FM clarifies that neither club have submitted an official bid. Still, Atlético’s proactive approach have established them as the primary European destination for the Brazilian full-back.

Botafogo remain in a strong negotiating position regarding their defensive asset. Vitinho concluded a marathon 2025 season with impressive durability, featuring in 59 matches across all competitions. He contributed two goals and four assists during this period. The 26-year-old’s efforts cemented his status as a key figure in domestic and continental campaigns.

His current contract runs until December 2029. This factor gives the Rio de Janeiro club complete control over the fee. As a result, Everton face a difficult task if they wish to reassert themselves in this transfer battle. The momentum clearly favours a move to the Spanish capital.

Analysis: Does David Moyes need Vitinho?

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – OCTOBER 26: Vitinho of Botafogo fights for the ball with Souza of Santos during the match between Botafogo and Santos as part of Brasileirao 2025 at Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos on October 26, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images)

David Moyes urgently requires a specialist right-back to balance his squad at Goodison Park. The manager has relied heavily on central defender Jake O’Brien to plug the gap on the right flank this season. This makeshift solution limits the team’s attacking width. Club captain Seamus Coleman is now 37 and approaching the twilight of his career, while Nathan Patterson is also struggling for fitness and consistency.

With these issues in mind, Moyes lacks a reliable, natural option in that position. Vitinho presents an intriguing solution. His high volume of appearances proves that his fitness levels would suit the rigorous demands Moyes places on his players.

However, the Toffees require decisive action to win the race against Atlético Madrid. Everton often fail to execute such moves in the winter market. Moyes typically prefers players with proven Premier League experience to minimise adaptation risks. Even so, financial constraints may force him to seek the value found in South America.

Everton might convince the player that regular Premier League football offers a better platform than being used as a rotation option in Madrid. They must match Botafogo’s valuation to do so. Even with that in mind, the allure of Champions League football with Atlético makes this a steep challenge for the Merseyside club.