Juventus are reportedly set to rival Manchester United in signing Bayern Munich midfield starlet Renato Sanches.
According to a report by Italian publication Corriere Dello Sport, Manchester United’s pursuit of Renato Sanches is likely to be hijacked by Juventus as the Italian club looks to strengthen its midfield.
The youngster has not had the best of starts under Carlo Ancelotti at Bayern Munich, making only 17 league appearances over the entire season. He could be nearing a sudden exit from the German club as two top clubs prepare to battle it out for him.
Renato Sanches was pursued by Manchester United last summer, but the 19-year-old chose to join Bayern Munich instead. Prior to that, he played for Benfica and even played an integral role in Portugal’s Euro 2016 victory.
In fact, after playing his part in Portugal’s 2-0 semi-final win against Wales, Sanches became the youngest player to feature in a UEFA European Championship final – and subsequently lift the trophy. Unfortunately for the promising youngster, his progress has stagnated at Bayern.
However, with Manchester United and Juventus vying to sign the midfielder, Sanches will be looking to get back to action soon.
Newly crowned UEFA Europa League champions Manchester United will need to recruit more players before the new season. The club’s attack and defence have been good enough, but the midfield was a mess on several occasions.
Michael Carrick is rumoured to exit the club, and Jose Mourinho will need a replacement. Although he has players like Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini, the Portuguese manager will need another option as they will have bigger challenges to face next season.
Sanches is physically quite strong and not shy when it comes to scoring as demonstrated during his Benfica spell. United are in need of a midfielder like him who has the pace and skill to engage in attacking runs.
It might seem a bit odd that Ancelotti is looking to sell both Sanches and Douglas after Xabi Alonso’s recent retirement. However, it has also been reported that the German club are seeking to sign Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez.
Renato Sanches can prove to be a quality addition to either club but considering Manchester United’s needs at the moment, the youngster can get the break he’s been waiting for. The Red Devils’ midfield can use new and fresh talent, and Sanches can bring all that and more.
However, Jose Mourinho will have to act fast and swoop in to sign the player before Juventus makes a bid to do so.
