Man United join Arsenal in race for Roma's Brazilian defender

Credit: Getty Images

Arsenal's long tracked pursuit of Roma defender Wesley now has company. According to Football Insider, Manchester United have entered the race for the Brazilian and are keen to push for a deal in January.

Wesley was on Arsenal's radar back when he was playing for Flamengo in Brazil, but Roma moved fastest and won that race. Since arriving in Serie A, he has established himself as one of the most effective players in his position in Europe, helping Roma challenge domestically while also performing well on the continental stage.

United step up their interest

Manchester United are reportedly looking to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season and view Wesley as a player capable of doing that. Football Insider reports that United have been monitoring him closely and are set to intensify their pursuit in the coming weeks as they look to get ahead of Arsenal in the race for his signature.

That sets up a direct battle between the two Premier League clubs, both of whom see Wesley as a long term option in defence. Arsenal's interest predates United's involvement, which could count in their favour, but United's financial resources and apparent urgency to get a deal done add a layer of uncertainty to how this plays out.

What makes Wesley appealing

Wesley's attacking instincts and adaptability have been central to his rise at Roma, and a move to the Premier League would see him line up alongside other Brazilian talent, which could ease any transition into English football. Both Arsenal and United are understood to regard him as a long term investment rather than a short term fix.

Nothing is settled yet, and the report makes clear the situation remains fluid heading into January. Arsenal will need to manage United's growing interest if the club wants to turn its long standing scouting work on Wesley into an actual transfer. The coming weeks are likely to clarify where his future lies.