Who is Wesley Franca? Liverpool makes 'informal approach' for Brazilian defender
Liverpool is reportedly keeping an eye on Flamengo defender Wesley Franca as Arne Slot considers adding to his defensive options this summer.
The 21-year-old has become a regular starter for the Brazilian club, who were crowned Campeonato Carioca champions last year. Since joining Flamengo, Wesley has made 113 appearances and scored two goals.
It's reported that Wesley is close to earning a call-up to the Brazil squad for next month's 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. Liverpool is said to have been monitoring the 21-year-old since last season, with "informal approaches" already made. There are suggestions that the Reds could make a move for him after the newly-enhanced Club World Cup this summer.
READ MORE: Arne Slot lifts lid on conversations with Jurgen Klopp as one Liverpool topic ignored
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Premier League rivals Bournemouth and Aston Villa have both reportedly had bids for Wesley turned down with Manchester United also said to be keeping an eye on the player. Flamengo also rejected a $26 million (€25M) offer from Russian club Zenit Saint-Petersburg last month. The Brazilian club could potentially earn over $31M (€30) from the sale of the 21-year-old defender.
By making contact over a potential deal for Wesley Liverpool could be eyeing a solution to its Trent Alexander-Arnold issue, should he decide to leave in the summer, as well as strengthening its defensive options for the future.
After a stint with Atlético Tubarão, Wesley joined Flamengo in 2021 following an impressive trial, initially linking up with their youth teams. His talents were quickly recognized, and he became a key starter for the under-20 side.
Within a few months, Wesley earned a call-up to the senior team, making his full debut against Atlético Goianiense at just 18 years old.
The youngster was given an opportunity in Flamengo's first team in 2023 through injuries to Guillermo Varela and Matheusinho. However, even after they returned, Wesley had solidified his place in the starting lineup thanks to a string of impressive performances.
His consistent displays quickly made him a key player for Flamengo. Wesley's fearless ability to drive the ball forward and create chaos on the right flank is said to be a standout aspect of his game. While he primarily operates on the right side, he's also shown adaptability in the inverted full-back role.
Wesley's versatility allows him to pop up in various positions across the pitch, making him difficult for defenders to track. Defensively, he is known for making overlapping or underlapping runs that disrupt the opposition, providing not only a tricky winger to mark but also a tenacious, attack-minded full-back.
The Reds have had a strong South American presence in recent years, with players like Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker, Fabinho, Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Alexis Mac Allister all making significant contributions. With such a well-established South American contingent, Wesley would likely have no trouble fitting in at Liverpool.
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