Villarreal and Real Betis lead the race for in-demand Deportivo defender Sidnei, according to reports in the Spanish press.
The Brazilian defender looks set to leave relegated Depor this summer with El Desmarque reporting his desire to remain in Spain and the two Europa League bound clubs leading the chase.
There are two drawbacks regarding the deal, the report continues, with the first being his valuation of €10m and the second that he has not yet been granted EU citizenship.
Each club can register up to only three non-EU players and the 28-year-old does not qualify, despite having played in Spain since 2013 and before that, with Benfica in 2008.
However, both Betis and Villarreal are said to be keen on strengthening their defence and have earmarked the defender, whose asking price is likely to eventually be lowered.
Sidnei’s ownership rights are currently split between Depor, Benfica and agency Gestifute.
