Monaco surge ahead in race to sign Portuguese-Guinean defender Flávio Nazinho

AS Monaco are reportedly leading the race to secure the signature of highly-rated Portuguese-Guinean left-back Flávio Nazinho from Cercle Brugge ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Ligue 1 side are said to be making significant progress in negotiations, with positive and concrete talks currently ongoing between Monaco officials and the player’s representatives as they look to finalise a potential deal.

According to reports, Monaco have stepped up their interest in the 22-year-old as they aim to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.

Nazinho, who has impressed with his consistency, athleticism, and attacking contributions from the left flank, has emerged as one of the most promising young full-backs in the Belgian league.

His performances for Cercle Brugge have not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs closely monitoring his development over the past season.

Among the interested parties is Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart, who are also keen on bringing the Portuguese defender into their ranks as they look to reinforce their squad depth.

However, despite Stuttgart’s long-standing interest, negotiations are understood to be more advanced with Monaco, who are currently considered the frontrunners in the transfer battle.

Monaco’s push for Nazinho reflects their ongoing strategy of recruiting young, high-potential talents capable of developing into key first-team players while also boosting the club’s long-term competitiveness.

The French club believe the 22-year-old fits their profile perfectly, given his versatility, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in attacking phases of play.

Cercle Brugge are expected to demand a reasonable fee for one of their standout performers, although no official valuation has yet been confirmed.

For Nazinho, a move to Ligue 1 could represent a major step forward in his career, offering him the opportunity to compete at a higher level and further showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Monaco’s pursuit is expected to intensify as they aim to complete a deal before other European clubs enter the race more aggressively.