Brighton scouting trip takes unexpected turn as rarget red-carded and rival defender impresses

Brighton and Hove Albion representatives traveled to Brazil to scout Atlético Mineiro centre-back Vitão, according to a report by Sport Witness.

The Seagulls watched Atlético’s 1-1 Copa do Brasil semi-final draw with Grêmio, but the scouting trip took an unexpected turn when 18-year-old Vitão received a second-half red card for a high boot on Martin Braithwaite following a VAR review.​

Meanwhile, Grêmio’s 21-year-old defender Wallace caught the attention of the visiting English scouts with a strong defensive performance. Wallace, who joined Grêmio from second-tier CRB in June, helped his side secure a 3-1 aggregate victory to advance to December’s final.​

While Vitão remains the primary target Brighton traveled to observe, Wallace’s impressive display added an unexpected name to their watchlist.

Brazil’s domestic season concludes in December ahead of the January transfer window, leaving Brighton with additional target considerations following their trip to Belo Horizonte.