Rio de Janeiro : Brazilian center-back Xandao could join Gremio from Russia's Anzhi Makhachkala, according to the Porto Alegre club's football manager.

Xandao still has more than two years left on his Anzhi contract but is the subject of transfer speculation as the Russian club reportedly grapples with financial difficulties, reports Xinhua news agency.

"He is a player that we are monitoring," Gremio football manager Odorico Roman was quoted as saying by Uol Esporte.

Xandao has played just six matches for Anzhi since his August transfer from fellow Russian club Kuban.

The 28-year-old, who started his professional career with Brazil's Guarani in 2005, has also had spells with Brazilian Serie A giants Fluminense and Sao Paulo. IANS