Report: Real Salt Lake Interested In Young Brazilian Phenom

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Real Salt Lake is reportedly interested in signing Mateus Vital from Corinthians, according to Brazilian media company Globo.com.

Vital, 23, began his career at Club de Regatas Vasco da Gama where he spent two seasons between 2015-17. He then made the move to Corinthians where he has appeared in 82 games and scored on 8 occasions.

According to @globoesporteSP, Real Salt Lake would be interested in Brazil's Mateus Vital (23), #Corinthians/BRA player.#RealSaltLake #MLS pic.twitter.com/sEWCkzWhU2

— Territorio MLS 🇺🇸 (@territoriomlsen) February 16, 2021

The report states that RSL is after a loan with a purchase option. RSL has offered Corinthians $200,000 with a purchase price tag of $3.8 million. However, Corinthians has rejected RSL’s offer and instead is asking for $5 million as opposed to the $3.8 million originally offered.

RSL refused to make any comment on the rumor when KSL Sports reached out.

Vital has spent time with the U-15, U-17, and U-23 Brazilian National Teams.

MLS Transfer Window

Major League Soccer opened its Primary Transfer Window on February 10th and will run through May 4th. RSL General Manager Elliot Fall has publicly addressed the current financial status of the club and although the chances of signing a designated player seem slim, the club does have plans to address multiple position groups in need.

U.S. international striker Bobby Wood has been linked with a move to RSL. Rubio Rubin signed a deal earlier in the year with RSL and will likely play a key role in the attacking third. Replacing Nedum Onuoha at center back is a priority while also adding midfield depth.

The club has Targeted and General Allocation Money to spend.

Vidal would be bought with Targeted Allocation Money if a deal does eventuate.