Manchester United and Barcelona battle for Brazilian defender
Manchester United and Barcelona have set their sights on signing AS Monaco defender Fabinho as both clubs look to strengthen their back four for the next season.
The Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho already has the services of Matteo Darmian and Antonio Valencia in the right-back position, along with Timothy Fosu-Mensah. However, in the second half of the season, Darmian, who arrived from Torino last summer struggled with injuries, which saw a dip in his form.
According to Sky Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio, Serie A club Napoli have also long been admirers of the Brazilian full-back.They are keen on bringing the Brazilian right-back to Stadio San Paolo. However, they will face stiff competition from European giants as both Manchester United and Barcelona have joined the race for his signature.
In the 2015-16 season, Fabinho scored six goals and registered three assists from 34 Ligue 1 appearances. A stats suggest that the South American is one player who will contribute to his side's attack as well, in terms of goals and assist.
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His form saw him make it to Brazil squad for the 2016 Copa America Centenario where they were knocked out from the group stages of the tournament in the United States following their 1-0 defeat to Peru.
Brazil coach Dunga preferred Barcelona star Dani Alves ahead of the 22-year-old for his starting lineup. With Alves having exited Camp Nou in the summer transfer window, Catalan club have also been forced to look elsewhere.
The Sun meanwhile reports Jose Mourinho is willing to part ways with his full-back and include him in a deal that could see him bring Paul Pogba back to Old Trafford.
With both United and Barcelona's first choice right-backs heading towards summer exit, these two clubs will be looking to bring in a player in that position and Monaco's Fabinho has emerged as a target.