Dede wants Vasco da Gama stay

Vasco da Gama defender Dede has claimed that he is not interested in a move away from Brazil.

The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the brightest defensive prospects in world football, with a host of clubs said to be courting his services.

However, the Brazilian has quelled suggestions that a move to Europe could soon materialise.

"I would like to stay [at Vasco] as long as possible so that I can be close to my family. I am ready to mark European strikers, but it would be even better if I could do so playing for Vasco," Dede told Extra Online.

AC Milan are understood to be lead the race should he depart Brazil.