Manchester United are reportedly eager to pip Liverpool in the race for Fabio Carvalho, although beating the Merseysiders would be tricky.
According to the Daily Star, Manchester United are keen on signing Fulham youngster Fabio Carvalho, who came close to joining Liverpool in the January transfer window. While the Merseysiders are favourites to sign the 18-year-old, the Red Devils are prepared to explore their chances of luring him to Old Trafford.
Fabio Carvalho was a relatively unknown quantity until Liverpool came swooping in with their interest in the 19-year-old midfielder. The Portuguese-born England youth international has quietly been building a reputation as one of the most exciting talents in the country, and the Merseysiders wanted to land him immediately.
Liverpool looked destined to complete a £5 million deal with Fulham, although they missed the transfer deadline, which is why the move collapsed. While it is understood that Carvalho was keen on joining the Reds, he might have ended up with the Championship side on loan as part of the agreement.
Jurgen Klopp recently confirmed Liverpool are still pushing to sign Carvalho, hinting at a possible summer move. However, since the initial move failed, more clubs have come into the equation, exploring the possibility of snatching him from under Liverpool’s noses.
Manchester United are one such team, who sent scouts to watch Carvalho during Fulham’s defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder impressed by scoring his side’s only goal in the 4-1 loss.
Manchester United want the youngster and hope to beat their traditional rivals in the process. However, Liverpool remain the favourites to sign the 18-year-old attacking midfielder. Meanwhile, there is also interest from Real Madrid and AC Milan, who could secure the player without having to pay any form of compensation.
Liverpool have reportedly scheduled talks with Fulham over a move and remain open to letting Carvalho stay at Craven Cottage, especially if the club is promoted into the Premier League next season. Such an idea could be good for all parties, as it would help the midfielder earn valuable top-flight experience.
While Manchester United have a slim chance to sign Carvalho, Liverpool are still expected to complete the transfer without any hiccups. However, if other important offers arrive on the table, the Fulham star could decide to change his mind when his contract expires in the summer.
