Man United ‘Make Contact’ to Sign Brazilian Defender in £25m Summer Move | OneFootball

Manchester United Eye Vanderson as Summer Rebuild Accelerates

Tactical Clarity Behind United’s Transfer Strategy

After a 2024/25 season that veered from frustration to farce, Manchester United have wasted no time in signalling their intentions. The club’s early business—securing Matheus Cunha from Wolves and pushing ahead with a deal for Bryan Mbeumo—is indicative of a summer dictated by urgency and vision. Now, attention has shifted to defence.

According to Fichajes, “a new wing-back is the next thing on Amorim and Ratcliffe’s agenda.” The Spanish outlet reports that United have “set their sights on Vanderson,” the 23-year-old Monaco defender whose “profile is perfectly suited to the style of play they want to establish starting next season.”

Initial contact has reportedly taken place, and Fichajes claim that Monaco are ‘seriously considering’ United’s financial proposal of €30 million (£25m).

Photo IMAGO

Why Vanderson Appeals to Amorim

The appeal of Vanderson lies in his profile – versatile, dynamic, and experienced despite his age. Having represented Monaco across domestic and European competition, the Brazilian has built a reputation for resilience and athleticism.

Fichajes notes that “United view the 23-year-old’s youth as a ‘key asset, with room for improvement and sufficient experience at club and international level.’” In other words, Vanderson is not a panic buy, he’s a project. And in Ruben Amorim’s system, which prioritises width, pace, and overlapping full-backs, the Brazilian fits the mould.

Should a deal be completed, he would compete with Diogo Dalot and potentially Noussair Mazraoui for the right-sided role, giving United options and depth they sorely lacked during a chaotic previous campaign.

Other Clubs Lurking

United, however, are not alone in the pursuit. Tottenham Hotspur remain keen, while Liverpool had reportedly explored the option before turning their focus to Jeremie Frimpong. That interest alone underlines Vanderson’s value.

Monaco are understood to be preparing for life without him. Though he has three years remaining on his current contract, the Ligue 1 side are “considering potential replacements” as they weigh up whether now is the time to sell.

Photo IMAGO

For United, the move represents not just an attempt to bolster the squad, but to reassert their place in the market. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe heavily involved, and Amorim seemingly backed, this summer’s early dealings reflect a sense of structure long absent at Old Trafford.

As Fichajes summarise: “United are working to finalise a deal that could be resolved in the coming weeks.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s a sense, for once, of proper planning from United. Vanderson isn’t a name plucked from thin air. He’s been scouted, profiled, and matches the identity Amorim wants to imprint on this team.

At just 23, he offers longevity and adaptability. Crucially, he doesn’t arrive as an automatic starter, he will push Dalot, perhaps even share time depending on tactics and opponent. That internal competition is something United have often lacked in recent seasons.

For Monaco, cashing in now may make economic sense. With interest from multiple top clubs and a solid three-year contract buffer, this is a strong negotiating position. But it’s also a potential loss of a talent who could explode in the right system, something Amorim seems determined to provide.

What will reassure supporters most is that this feels less like another panic purchase and more like a measured investment. With early deals already in motion and key areas addressed, the Vanderson link strengthens the impression that United are finally thinking beyond the short term.