Brighton & Hove Albion scouts reportedly took notice of Grêmio defender Wallace while attending a Copa do Brasil semi-final to assess Atlético Mineiro youngster Vitão.
Representatives of the Premier League club were reportedly present at Arena MRV on Saturday, when Atlético drew 1-1 with Grêmio.
The result sent Grêmio into the final with a 3-1 aggregate victory, although Brighton's original scouting target endured a difficult evening.
Brighton scouting trip takes unexpected turn
Brazilian journalist João Van Boysen reported that Brighton representatives travelled to watch 18-year-old centre-back Vitão.
However, the Atlético defender was sent off late in the match following a high challenge on former Barcelona striker Martin Braithwaite.
The referee initially awarded a yellow card before upgrading the punishment following a VAR review.
Meanwhile, Wallace reportedly attracted attention from the visiting scouts.
According to Soccer News Grêmio, citing a source, the 21-year-old defender's performance prompted discussions among Brighton's representatives.
There is no confirmation that the Seagulls have approached Grêmio or formally added Wallace to their recruitment shortlist.
Who are Vitão and Wallace?
Vitão developed through Atlético Mineiro's academy and has represented Brazil at youth level.
Standing 1.94 metres tall, the defender made his senior breakthrough this year and is regarded as a promising prospect.
Wallace joined Grêmio from CRB in June and has established himself in the club's defensive rotation.
The 1.90-metre defender can operate centrally or in alternative defensive positions, offering the versatility Brighton often value in young recruits.
He started Saturday's semi-final as Grêmio secured their place in the Copa do Brasil final.
Could Brighton make a January move?
Brighton have an established record of recruiting young South American players, but the reported scouting visit does not establish that negotiations are under way.
Vitão remains the player Brighton were reportedly watching, while Wallace's emergence appears to have been an unexpected development.
Key Points
- Brighton scouts reportedly attended Atlético Mineiro against Grêmio.
- Vitão received a red card following a VAR review.
- Wallace reportedly caught the visitors' attention.
- Grêmio advanced 3-1 on aggregate.
- No formal Brighton approach has been confirmed.
What's Next?
Grêmio's Copa do Brasil final on 6 December could offer another opportunity to assess Wallace, although further Brighton interest remains unconfirmed.
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