Vitinha has reportedly emerged as a target for Arsenal and Manchester United after an impressive season at FC Porto.
According to Record, Vitinha is attracting interest from the Premier League, as Arsenal and Manchester United battle for the Portuguese midfielder’s signature. The Porto star had a terrific 2021/22 season, winning the league and putting in some impressive displays along the way.
Vitinha was one of Porto’s most important players in their title-winning campaign, making 40 appearances across all competitions. The midfielder’s performances have continued to attract interest from big Premier League clubs looking to bring him back to England in the summer.
Vitinha previously spent a season on loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers, making 22 appearances across all competitions. His presence was not convincing enough for the club to trigger a permanent move, although that decision could come back to bite them if his release clause is triggered.
Porto are demanding his €40 million release clause be paid to sign Vitinha, with plenty of interest emerging in this market. Arsenal and Manchester United are credited with an interest in the player, who has a contract until 2024 with the Portuguese giants.
Arsenal are in the market for a new midfielder and consider Youri Tielemans as the priority signing. However, they were also rumoured to be keeping an eye out for another central midfielder, which could be the case if Granit Xhaka was to depart.
The €40 million release clause may not bother Arsenal, considering their budget this summer. However, the Gunners could look to reduce the price tag if there is a chance. The likelihood of signing Vitinha could hinge on other factors, such as Xhaka’s departure, which may not happen this summer.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are credited with an interest as Erik ten Hag eyes a new midfield option. They are vying for Frenkie de Jong’s signature, but the Dutchman could play a different role than what Vitinha occupies. The Porto star is a more central player, happy to occupy the space in the middle, while the Barcelona ace has more attacking instincts.
Manchester United could explore the opportunity, with the Portuguese international on their shortlist for a new midfielder. For Manchester United, paying the €40 million release clause should not be too much hassle. They also have good relations with Porto after conducting business for Alex Telles.
Also Read: Manchester United Season Review: What went wrong for the Red Devils in the 2021/22 season?
Vitinha will certainly look to move out of Portugal in the summer if a viable offer arrives. Manchester United need the player more than Arsenal at this stage, and a move to Old Trafford might suit all parties concerned.
