Everton learn Vitinho’s asking price as David Moyes dealt blow in transfer race
A new right-back is near the top of Everton’s wish list once the January transfer window opens, and Vitinho is being targeted from Botafogo.
Everton were linked with former Burnley defender Vitinho earlier in December, and the 26-year-old could return to England to reinforce David Moyes’ defence.
Moyes has been playing Jake O’Brien out of position at right-back, and although the Republic of Ireland international has done a solid job, the Scotsman wants to sign someone who naturally plays that role.
Nathan Patterson is out of favour at Everton, while veteran Seamus Coleman has suffered with injuries and is likely to leave this summer, making it even more vital that a replacement is found.
Atletico Madrid join race for £13m-rated Vitinho
It was revealed earlier this month that Vitinho wanted to leave Botafogo after the 2026 World Cup, as he’s fully focused on making Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
That dealt a blow to Everton’s chances of signing the talented right-back, and now Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte have reported that Atletico Madrid have joined the race for his signature.
According to the report, Botafogo are demanding €15m (£13million) for one of their prized assets in January after paying just £6.9m for him in 2024.
A fee of £13m is an affordable price for The Friedkin Group, but they will be concerned that Atletico Madrid have entered the picture.
The Spanish giants can offer the defender a chance to play Champions League football – unlike Everton – and that could play a strong part in negotiations.
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How Everton could convince Vitinho to join
As much as a switch to Atleti would appeal to Vitinho, there are question marks over whether he would start for Diego Simeone.
Marcos Llorente is one of Europe’s best right backs, and he’s nailed on to start in that position, while Nahuel Molina is also an option.
Vitinho could find himself third-choice before even joining Simeone’s squad, whereas he would be instantly first-choice at Everton.
O’Brien would move from full-back into central defence, while even a fully fit Coleman or Patterson wouldn’t start ahead of the former Burnley man.
So, Vitinho has to decide between the guarantee of regular first-team football or potentially warming the bench, and there is only one right answer.
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