Vasco target Otamendi sees Benfica move over possible exit | OneFootball

Experienced center-back Nicolás Otamendi has emerged as one of the main targets for Vasco’s board as they look to strengthen the first-team squad. With the Argentine player’s contract nearing its end in the 2025/26 European season, the Cruz-Maltino club is closely monitoring the situation of the current Benfica captain, aiming to bring in an unquestioned technical leader for its defensive system. The possibility of a return to the highly sought-after South American football scene is stirring up the transfer market behind the scenes this semester.

Aware of the strong possibility of losing its starting defensive leader, the Portuguese club has already begun mapping out the scenario for a complex succession. Benfica’s board has drawn up a shortlist of targets that includes Cristhian Mosquera, currently playing for Arsenal, Nobel Mendy of Rayo Vallecano, and the experienced Stefan de Vrij, who wears the shirt of Inter Milan. Portuguese tradition demands a center-back with outstanding leadership, a quality Vasco is also tirelessly prioritizing in the continent.

+ WE FOUND OUT! Vasco tries to overcome European giants to sign Otamendi

Who is Otamendi? And why is Vasco interested?

Developed at Vélez Sarsfield, the combative defender built an enviable career in Europe, with highly notable spells at Porto, Valencia, and Manchester City before arriving in Portugal. A full world champion with the Argentina national team, the thirty-eight-year-old has the physical profile and strong tactical presence that the current coaching staff is eagerly seeking.

Vasco’s interest is based precisely on that vast international experience, in hopes of raising the technical level of the Brazilian squad.

Technical comparison of Otamendi’s style

Tactical analysts point out that any eventual change in the heart of the Portuguese defense would bring very significant changes to the team’s overall style of play. While the current captain tends to take aggressive steps out of the defensive line that occasionally lead to avoidable goals over the course of demanding competitions, the player from the Italian league stands out technically for being much calmer and strictly positional. That admired trait brings him quite close to the composed style that Vertonghen used to display in the Portuguese league.

Despite the naturally advanced age of both renowned defenders, the physical issue is always assessed with great caution by rigorous scouts around the world. While the Europeans plan a risky defensive transition, the Cruz-Maltino side is quietly working behind the scenes in an attempt to complete this blockbuster signing for Vasco during this important season.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.