Barcelona have now joined the race to sign Andre – a player who Manchester City also have on the transfer shortlist.
That is according to Mundo Deportivo.
So, what is the latest on Manchester City target Andre? Let’s take a look…
Barcelona join Andre race
Well, after the Brazil international impressed for Fluminense at the FIFA Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia, Barcelona have now sat up and taken notice.
The story from Mundo Deportivo claims that Xavi’s side admire Andre, and while he is not believed to be the club’s No.1 target this winter, the Spanish news outlet state that a deal could still very much happen due to market circumstances.
It is said that Deco – Director of Football at Barcelona – has a strong relationship with Fluminense, and also a range of contacts in the Brazilian market.
It comes after the Daily Star claimed that Manchester City like Andre and could sign him as a replacement for Kalvin Phillips in January, with Fluminense demanding £35m.
Interestingly, the South American has already said he would join Barcelona.
Mundo Deportivo quote the 22-year-old as saying: “On a day to day basis I focus on Fluminense. Barcelona and Real Madrid are great clubs, but I think I would choose Barcelona.”
How Andre performed against Manchester City
Andre coincidentally met Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup final last week.
The Brazilian found himself up against it almost immediately after a mistake from Marcelo eventually led to Julian Alvarez guiding the ball into an empty net with his chest – a moment which left Robbie Savage seriously impressed.
Nevertheless, Andre held his own up against Rodri in midfield, registering a pass success rate of 99% (SofaScore) as he misplaced just one of his 70 passes – a statistic that will surely catch the eye of Pep Guardiola.
The Spaniard has already called the Fluminense No.7 a “quality” footballer.
As far as auditions go, it was a solid showing from Andre – be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as the Brazilian could be moving to Barcelona or Manchester City this winter.
