Everton are preparing a move for Brazilian former Burnley right-back Vitinho ahead of the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old Botafogo fullback spent two years at Burnley before returning to his native Brazil.
But he has now been heavily linked to Merseyside, with David Moyes keen to bring in a natural right-back and restore balance to his squad.
After an impressive start to the season, Everton are eyeing European football.
But injuries have left them severely short of options on the right-hand side of their back line.
As a result, Vitinho has emerged as a priority target for the upcoming window.
Everton Lining Up Move For Vitinho
Despite a strong start and seventh-placed position in the Premier League, Everton remain vulnerable at the back.
They desperately need a natural right-back if they wish to keep pushing up the table.
And reports indicate that signing Botafogo’s Vitinha is their primary objective in that position.
They will face competition from the Brazilian’s former club, Burnley.
The Clarets are also said to be keen on bringing him back to the Premier League after a two-year stint from 2022-2024.
Vitinho made his senior Brazil debut this year.
But Everton’s need is particularly dire.
Veteran defender and club captain Seamus Coleman is 37, injured and out of contract in the summer, while Nathan Patterson is sidelined.
In their absence, makeshift options such as Jake O’Brien and James Garner have been forced to play out of position.
Moyes is determined to bring in a natural option, especially given Garner’s excellent form in midfield.
With Everton targeting a return to Europe, signing Vitinho has become a clear priority.
Who Is Everton Target Vitinho?
Twenty-six-year-old Brazilian full-back Vitinho has impressed since returning to Brazil from Burnley.
He left Turf Moor lasy year in a deal worth a reported £8.75 million deal.
Since then, he’s made 75 appearances for the club, including providing an assist during the Club World Cup campagin.
He recently earned a call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad, making his debut in September.
Known for his athleticism, pace and attacking influence, Vitinho offers an upgrade in areas where Everton have been lacking.
Former Burnley boss Vincent Kompany, now at Bayern Munich, praised him enthusiastically during their time together.
Former Burnley boss Kompany was a big fan of Vitinho.
“Attitude? Impeccable. Workrate, speed, athleticism. Even in the Premier League he is giving us so much,” he said.
That blend of commitment and physicality makes him an ideal fit for Moyes, whose full-backs must contribute both defensively and offensively.
But the player has publicly insisted his focus remains on Botafogo.
“I can’t think about leaving. Everything I do and have today is because of this club. I’m grateful to everyone,” said Vitinho recently.
However, a Premier League move is enough to turn almost any player’s head.
The obstacle for Everton is cost, though. Vitinho’s contract runs until 2029 and contains no release clause.
Botafogo, who see him as a key asset, will expect to make a solid profit from any January sale.
How Likely Is a Move In January?
A January move for Vitinho is possible for Everton, but far from straightforward.
Botafogo have little incentive to sell their man mid-season, meaning a significant offer would be required.
Everton cannot afford a panic buy, so will hold off unless the finances of any deal make sense.
Interest from Burnley also complicates matters. The player is familiar with Turf Moor and retains a good relationship with the Lancashire club.
But Moyes’ determination to bring in a quality right-back may push the club into splashing some cash in January to ensure they don’t lose out to the Clarets.
And with European football on the line, Everton may not feel they can wait until the summer.
