Bayern Munich are reportedly set to rival Manchester United in the race to sign highly-rated Benfica right-back Nelson Semedo
Portuguese publication O Jogo have claimed that Bayern Munich are interested in Manchester United target Nelson Semedo. The Benfica right-back has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but it seems the Red Devils will not have a clear run in on the Portuguese, with Bayern joining the pursuit.
Nelson Semedo has grown into one of the most commanding right-backs in world football. He has become an integral figure in the first-team setup at Benfica and the statistics back his claim to be there too.
The 23-year-old has featured in every single Liga NOS game and Champions League fixture for SL Benfica, notching up a decent return of 2 goals and 3 assists in the two competitions combined. His on-field exploits have not gone unnoticed either, with Benfica locking him down to a long-term contract in December 2015.
His current deal is due to expire in 2021, but that has not deterred top European clubs from circling around the player. Manchester United have been linked for a move for Semedo along with his partner in the back-four, Victor Lindelof.
Mourinho seems unsatisfied with the right-back options currently at his disposal. Antonio Valencia, who is a more natural winger, is the first-choice right-back for the Portuguese and Matteo Darmian, a natural right-back, has been deployed more on the other side of the defence.
It becomes quite clear, then, why United need a right back. And rightly, United have been linked with a £35 million swoop for Semedo. It was looking like United would be able to secure a hassle-free transfer for him.
But Bayern’s involvement may complicate the situation. The Bavarians have Philip Lahm and Rafinha, who at the respective ages of 33 and 31, are into the twilight years of his career and surely cannot produce football of a level that a club like Bayern Munich warrants for long.
Bayern have already secured one highly-rated Portuguese international in the summer in the form of Renato Sanches, who has already become a key part of the first-team setup at the Allianz Arena. And they are now eyeing a deal to bring Semedo in to join his international teammate.
Bayern’s entry may drive up the asking price, something that neither of the interested parties would balk at. United suffered defeat at the hands of Bayern in the pursuit of Renato Sanches, and now the Red Devils have a chance to exact revenge.
