Manchester United target dubbed ‘the next Cafu’; Flamengo ready to cash in

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Manchester United have been linked with a move for Flamengo right-back Wesley.

Wesley, 21, has reportedly impressed United with his performances for Flamengo of late and reports elsewhere suggest the Reds are keeping a close eye on the South American market.

According to Bolavip, United have shown interest in signing Wesley in recent times.

It’s worth stressing that the report reads like Flamengo are preparing to cash in on the player, who has been dubbed ‘the next Cafu’ by admirers on social media.

@flavela21 Flamengo renova com nosso novo Cafu, Wesley cabeça de filtro de barro. #torcidadoflamengo #tiktokesportes #flamengonoticias #flamengo #flamengo #fyp #comedia #flamengonoticias #viral ♬ som original – FlaVela21

Flamengo want to sell the defender for €25m, which is a lot to spend on a young defender when we’ve already got two right-backs in the squad.

Is Wesley what Manchester United need?

Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images

Wesley has made 42 appearances across all competitions during the 2023/24 season.

The Reds added to the right-back department in the summer after signing Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich towards the end of the transfer window.

Since then we’ve seen Mazraoui play at right-back and Diogo Dalot moved to the opposite flank. Erik ten Hag has called on the Portuguese full-back to play out of position due to the injuries at left-back.

That should tell you where United need to prioritise in their search for a new full-back. We need a left-back more than we need a right-back.

Mazraroui has had a promising start to his United career, having impressed with his technical ability and capabilities in defence. He is a huge upgrade on Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who left United to join West Ham in the summer.

United need to get rid of more players who are surplus to requirements or rarely available for selection.