United have used the services of former-defender Jaap Stam to examine the player and have received glowing praise. A bid of £15 million would be enough to secure his services from cash-strapped Vasco.

“Dede is absurdly talented and will certainly be one of Brazil’s centre-backs at the 2014 World Cup,” said opposition Fluminense manager Abel Braga, after last weeks match with Vasco.

“I cannot believe a player comes up against Vagner Love in six or seven one-on-ones and wins the ball every time.

“That is what Dede did. He made 16 tackles overall and not one was a foul. His form at the moment is exceptional.”

A full, in-depth profile of Dedé can be found here on theelastico.com