Manchester United are reportedly better positioned than Barcelona in the race for Andreas Schjelderup and plan to make a €60 million offer.
According to Fichajes, Manchester United could be preparing a €60 million offer for Andreas Schjelderup ahead of the summer transfer window. The Benfica star is on the agenda of multiple top clubs, including Barcelona, although the Red Devils are better placed in the race.
Andreas Schjelderup has captured the attention of several clubs following some impressive displays in a Benfica shirt. The young Norwegian winger is now widely expected to make a big move in the summer transfer window, with teams like Barcelona part of the chasing pack.
Barcelona are planning on adding a wide attacker in the summer and could look at the left-hand side of their front line as the possible area of investment, while they are also seeking a new striker. Schjelderup could be a good option, although their priority is to tie up a deal for Marcus Rashford, which may reduce the need for a new left winger.
Given the financial scrutiny on the club, it may prove difficult for Barcelona to sign Rashford and then look to make an additional investment in someone like Schjelderup. While they are interested, it is Manchester United who are seen as the front-runners in the race, with the club now planning on making a €60 million offer to test the waters with Benfica.
Manchester United are planning on adding a new left winger as well as a new left-back in the upcoming window, as that area of the pitch appears to be a priority. They might be a bit short on the attacking front in that region, which could see them target a move for Schjelderup, and the €60 million investment in the rising winger could prove to be a smart piece of business.
Is the €60 Million asking price justified?
Schjelderup was of interest to clubs like West Ham back in January, which tells a rather different story compared to the current moment, where Barcelona and Manchester United are keen. He has been putting in stellar performances for Benfica of late, particularly in the second half of the season, which is the reason why the Portuguese club might look to command a significant transfer fee.
Whether the €60 million price is justified is a question best answered closer to the summer, when the interest becomes concrete. He can be a sound investment given his 11-goal contributions for Benfica this term, and should that number continue to grow, the Portuguese side will be determined to demand a significant fee to part with the young Norwegian winger.
