Fenerbahçe reported to have put Corinthians midfielder André top of January list

Fenerbahçe have stepped up their preparations for the January transfer window after dropping points in the first part of the season. The Istanbul club are reported to be planning four additions to the squad in line with the requests of head coach Emre Belözoğlu. Aiming to strengthen their defence, midfield and attack, Fenerbahçe are said to have put Corinthians' André at the top of their transfer list. Neither club has made an official statement on the matter.

The roadmap for January is said to have become clear following meetings between the club's board and the coaching staff. Fenerbahçe are reported to be aiming to add a centre-back, a right-back, a central midfielder and a versatile attacking player who can operate both on the wings and up front. For the midfield addition, Corinthians' 20-year-old young talent André is reported to be the priority candidate.

In the search for defensive reinforcements, pace and athleticism are said to be the coaching staff's priority. The focus is understood to be on a quick, dynamic centre-back profile capable of comfortably defending large spaces, while at right-back a player who would suit the team's style of play is reportedly being sought. In attack, a versatile player able to feature in more than one area of the pitch is reported to be the preference.

André, who is said to be at the top of the list, came through the Corinthians academy and progressed to the first team. The 1.83m Brazilian is primarily a central midfielder but can also play as a holding midfielder and as a number ten. Born in São Paulo, the young player is under contract with his club until 2029.