SL Benfica star Nelson Semedo looks set for a summer transfer with reports of Manchester United agreeing a fee for the player, who is also courted by Chelsea.
Portuguese publication Noticias ao Minuto have sensationally revealed that Manchester United have agreed a fee in principle for SL Benfica star Nelson Semedo. The player looked to be in the midst of a three-way tussle in January, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Bayern Munich all interested, but ended up staying put in Portugal.
But if the recent report is to be believed, the player is unlikely to remain an SL Benfica player for much longer. United are reportedly ready to shelve out £35 million in the summer to land the Portuguese international.
The Red Devils have long been looking for a long-term solution to the right-back position. Antonio Valencia has filled in successfully, but there are often question marks on the Ecuadorian’s defensive aptitude, and Mourinho has been eyeing a deal to bring his compatriot over to Old Trafford for a while now.
.@ManUtd and Benfica have reportedly reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of the right-back Nelson Semedo. pic.twitter.com/DN3eNRPhfm
— The ManUtd Blog (@the_manutd_blog) February 2, 2017
While the Red Devils were looking to seal a deal for Semedo, Bayern Munich and Chelsea emerged as late suitors for the player. Ancelotti has ageing options available to him and has been looking for a more long-term replacement for the likes of Rafinha and Lahm, leading him to eye the Portuguese right-back.
On the other hand, Chelsea have been deploying wing-backs instead of traditional full-backs, with Victor Moses donning the role of the right wing-back. Semedo’s ability to play as a right-back and on the right side of a midfield makes him a prime target for Conte, and the 23-year-old would perhaps provide more defensive solidity than Moses.
But it seems United have blown their competition right out of the water, by agreeing a deal in principle with SL Benfica. Semedo too is likely to love the opportunity to play under Jose Mourinho, arguably one of the best managers to emerge from his homeland.
Manchester United seem to be on an upward trajectory under Mourinho and looks like Semedo could be the next piece of the jigsaw puzzle at Old Trafford.