Brighton & Hove Albion are preparing a move for Atletico Mineiro centre-back Vitao ahead of the January transfer window, according to a report by TEAMtalk.
The 18-year-old Brazilian defender is valued at around £12 million by his boyhood club following a breakthrough campaign that has drawn attention from clubs across England, Spain, France, and Italy.
Recruitment chiefs on the south coast have monitored the player’s trajectory for a lengthy period, as the Seagulls look to beat continental rivals to the signature of the youth international.
Mineiro officials ideally want to retain the academy graduate until the summer of 2027, but club chiefs anticipate formal approaches from Europe’s top five leagues over the coming weeks.
Meeting the £12 million asking price in January would make the teenager one of the most expensive sales in the history of the Belo Horizonte club.
Securing the defender’s signature will be difficult due to the calibre of clubs tracking his rapid rise.
Real Madrid scouts have watched the Brazil Under-20 international in action on multiple occasions, while Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan are also keeping close tabs on his progress.
The centre-half has already racked up 18 appearances across all competitions during an eye-catching breakthrough season in senior football.
Nine of those outings have come in the Brazilian top flight, where the teenager has scored one goal while maintaining consistent performances at the back.
Mineiro hold a strong negotiating position after tying the youngster down to a new contract in January that runs until 2028.
The long-term deal ensures the defender stays secure until a suitable European offer arrives.
Vitao remains fully focused on maintaining his domestic form and continuing his development in his homeland for the remainder of the season.
Club officials at the Amex Stadium know they must move swiftly in the New Year if they are to win the race for a deal.
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