From Portugal: Man Utd lining up move to sign €80m star if Bruno departs for Al Hilal

Manchester United have identified Sporting CP star Pedro Goncalves as a transfer target, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola (page 1&3).

The Red Devils are preparing for a busy summer transfer window. There could be multiple signings based on the manager’s recommendation.

The budget seems limited without European football, but the scenario could change soon if Bruno Fernandes were to leave for Al Hilal.

The club captain is seriously considering a move to the Saudi Pro League. Al Hilal are prepared to offer United around £100 million for his transfer.

Amidst this, A Bola today claim that United are considering an approach for Sporting CP star Goncalves, who has been a revelation in recent years.

The 26-year-old has been Sporting CP’s main playmaker since Fernandes’ exit five years ago and could secure a bigger challenge in the near future.

The Portuguese publication report there is a strong understanding between manager Ruben Amorim and Goncalves after four years together at Sporting CP.

United could reportedly be in a good position to recruit him with Fernandes’ departure. There may be a chance even if the club captain does not depart.

Sporting CP have a clear stance that Goncalves won’t be sold for less than his €80 million (£67 million) release clause.

United unlikely to pursue deal for Goncalves

The Portugal international has been a key player for Sporting CP. He started as a central midfielder but has operated from the left and right wing in recent years.

Goncalves has caught the eye with his goal contributions in a 3-4-2-1 formation in Lisbon and would be a good choice for United, having extensively played under Amorim.

However, we don’t see a deal happening. If Fernandes were to depart, the club could utilise the funds received (£100m) for the purchase of potentially three players.

United may not make a huge outlay of €80m (£67m) on Goncalves. The versatile attacker missed 34 games last season with two hamstring injuries – one of them being long-term.

It would represent a significant risk to sign him based on his recent injury record. The club already have an example in the squad in Mason Mount, who has yet to prove his credentials.

The Englishman was injury-prone during his final campaign at Chelsea, and United have suffered from the same issue, with Mount barely playing for the club in recent years.

Hence, we don’t anticipate United to pursue a deal for Goncalves.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .