South American youngster drawing renewed Manchester United interest
Recent reports suggest that Manchester United are reviving interest in Vasco da Gama defender Dédé, and could make a move for the player this summer.
The centre-back was being linked with a move to Old Trafford in 2010 but the starlet supposedly penned a new deal with Gigante da Colina after it emerged that he was unlikely to gain a work permit.
However, after two more seasons in his native Brazil, it seems as if the stopper may now qualify to play for Sir Alex Ferguson’s Red Devils.
The 23 year-old has been tipped by many to become the foundation on which the next generation of the Brazil national side is founded.
After watching Dédé in action against Flamengo this season, Fluminense coach Abel Braga stated:
“Dede is absurdly talented and will certainly be one of Brazil’s centre-backs at the 2014 World Cup. “I cannot believe a player comes up against Vagner Love in six or seven one-on-ones and wins the ball every time. ”
He added: “That is what Dede did. He made 16 tackles overall and not one was a foul. His form at the moment is exceptional.”
The centre-back, who can also operate as a sweeper has been reported as hailing from the same area of Rio de Janeiro as current United youngsters, Fabio and Rafael da Silva, and may consider the move to a club with a string of Portuguese-speaking stars.
Rio Ferdinand isn’t expected to play as big a role at Old Trafford as he has in the past sue to injury and although Chris Smalling and Phil Jones would readily step into the central role, further cover is expected to be brought in.
Brazil talent spotter and former Red Devil, Jaap Stam, is supposedly running the rule over Dédé as Manchester United consider a £15m move for the defender with Benfica also thought to be watching his progress.
