Manchester United remain interested in securing the services of Sporting CP starlet Pedro Goncalves, who is eyeing a summer move elsewhere.
According to Journal de Noticias, as relayed by Sport Witness, Sporting CP are facing a battle to keep hold of Pedro Goncalves. Although the influential attacker feels comfortable in Lisbon, he is gunning for a move elsewhere at the end of the season, as the Portuguese international looks to take the next step in his career.
Manchester United have been mentioned as a potential destination for Goncalves. The Premier League giants are closely monitoring the situation of the 23-year-old and are expected to pounce on the opportunity to sign the Portuguese international.
Formerly of Braga, Goncalves has been one of the rising stars in Portuguese football over the past couple of years. He rose into prominence last season, scoring 23 goals in 32 league matches. His contributions in front of goal were critical in helping Sporting CP secure the championship for the first time in around two decades.
The 23-year-old has not been able to reach the same heights in the new season. However, his tally of seven goals and six assists are not disappointing at all for a right-winger. He has, in fact, remained one of Sporting’s most important attackers, building a solid attacking combination alongside Paulinho and Pablo Sarabia.
Goncalves’s success has not gone unnoticed either, with Manchester United preparing to rekindle their pursuit of the influence attacker. It is no secret that the Red Devils are keen on shoring up their attacking options in the summer as they brace themselves for the potential exit of multiple star players.
Juan Mata, for one, is expected to leave Old Trafford amid interest from Real Sociedad and Real Betis. He could be joined by Jesse Lingard through the exit door, with the Englishman’s current deal expiring at the end of the season.
Anthony Martial could leave the club permanently as well after initially joining Sevilla on a loan deal last summer. His potential exit could accentuate Manchester United’s need for a new attacker, especially on the right flank.
Pedro Goncalves fits the bill perfectly due to his productivity in the final third. It could add more bite to the club’s offensive department while the Portuguese connection between him, Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, all sharing Sporting CP heritage in some form, could make Manchester United one of the most exciting attacking sides in the Premier League next term.
