The Vancouver Whitecaps have submitted an offer for FC Porto attacking midfielder Otavio, a source told MLSsoccer.com. The news was first reported by Sic Noticias, who added that AC Milan have also made an offer for the Brazilian.
Otavio's contract expires in the summer and Vancouver have offered him a $5 million signing fee and a contract of $2 million per season. The Whitecaps have yet to receive a decision.
Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari has reported that AS Roma, Juventus, Napoli and Leicester City are also interested.
Otavio, 25, originally signed with Porto in 2014 after breaking through with Internacional. The former Brazilian youth international has 17 goals and 45 assists in 167 appearances (132 starts) during his time with the Portuguese giants.
Last season, Otavio had two goals and 10 assists in league play. Likely a No. 10 for the Whitecaps, Otavio can feature on either wing as well as a second striker.
Vancouver announced the acquisition of Colombian youth international winger Deiber Caicedo, as reported by MLSsoccer.com, on Tuesday. Sporting director and CEO Axel Schuster has been consistent that the club will sign an attacking midfielder as a Designated Player this winter as well.
