Tottenham Hotspur remain one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Vasco da Gama forward Rayan, and the 19-year-old is continuing to impress, both on and off the pitch.
The Brazilian striker is widely considered one of the country’s brightest young talents, and he’s been speaking with maturity beyond his years about the timing of a move to Europe, telling Globo Esporte that he wants to be “ready to arrive and stay.”
Tottenham scouts impressed with attitude and development that Rayan is showing
Rayan has already been linked with several top clubs across Europe, but it’s clear he’s not in a rush. The teenager recently extended his contract with Vasco in 2025 despite interest from abroad.
He’s been leaning on senior figures like manager Fernando Diniz and experienced teammate Philippe Coutinho, who made a similar leap from Vasco to Europe.
“Some players go to Europe early but end up coming back,” Rayan said. “So I ask Coutinho for help. I want to make my name in Europe and then make my name here at Vasco again. He tells me what I need to do, just like Diniz does.”
The attacker added: “You have to work on and off the pitch. With a psychologist, a nutritionist, and arrive ready to stay.”
Development under Diniz shaping is helping Rayan
One of the most impressive aspects of Rayan’s progress is how his all-round game has evolved under Diniz. The coach has transformed the teenager’s defensive contribution and intensity, helping him adapt to a more pressing style.
“I’ve improved a lot in my defensive game,” Rayan said. “Before, we defended in a medium or low block. With him, I improved the high press. He demands a lot. Mark first, then play.”
The bond between the two is strong. “In my first training session, he told me to get the ball and carry it all the way into the goal,” Rayan recalled. “He told me I wasn’t a player to score just once, I should be scoring two or three each game. That opened my mind.”
Rayan is focused on Vasco for now, but it’s clear his ambitions are growing: “With the moment I’m living and with Diniz’s support, I know I can reach the national team and play in Europe. God is making a very special path for me.”
Tottenham are following Rayan closely
Tottenham’s recruitment team are understood to be well aware of Rayan’s development, and his mature outlook will only strengthen his appeal.
He might not be on the move just yet, but when he is, expect some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Spurs, to be firmly in the race.
