Cruzeiro are preparing an offer for Senegalese international Krépin Diatta, with the Brazilian Serie A side looking to tempt AS Monaco into a deal worth between €5m and €6m.
The 25-year-old winger, who joined Monaco from Club Brugge in January 2021, has slipped down the pecking order in the Principality and is expected to leave before the close of the summer transfer window.
While Diatta has yet to comment on his future, sources close to the negotiations suggest talks are moving towards a departure.
Cruzeiro, currently third in the Brazilian Serie A, are keen to reinforce their attacking options and view Diatta as an ideal fit.
Should a deal be completed, it would mark a surprise shift in direction for the Senegalese international, who had previously been linked with moves to Trabzonspor in Turkey and Greek side PAOK Salonika.
Diatta’s time at Monaco has been mixed. After making a promising start and establishing himself in the first team, increased competition for places and changes in management left him with fewer opportunities.
Last season he featured 24 times in all competitions, including 19 appearances in Ligue 1, but struggled to secure a regular starting role.
Despite limited game time, Diatta remains highly regarded for his pace, versatility, and direct style of play.
His current market valuation stands at around €7m, according to Transfermarkt, and his contract at Monaco runs until June 2026.
However, the club is understood to be open to negotiations in order to facilitate his exit this summer.
For Cruzeiro, the pursuit of Diatta highlights their growing ambition as they seek to consolidate their position at the top end of the Brazilian league.
The arrival of a player with European pedigree and international experience would provide both depth and quality in their bid to compete domestically and on the continental stage.
Monaco, meanwhile, continue preparations for their second-round Ligue 1 fixture against Lille, with Diatta unlikely to play a central role as discussions over his future progress.
If the move goes through, Diatta would join a growing number of African players choosing to continue their careers in South America, bringing both profile and experience to Cruzeiro’s ranks.
The coming weeks will determine whether the Brazilian club can strike an agreement with Monaco and complete what would be one of the more unexpected transfers of the summer window.
