Manchester United has expressed an interest in Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha, with their scouts reportedly watching the Portuguese international at least eight times this season.
United lack defensive midfielders, with just Nemanja Matic as a viable alternative. While Scott McTominay and Fred have been utilized as holding characters, many believe they aren’t the best candidates for the task. In the forthcoming summer transfer window, the Red Devils will attempt to bolster this area.
About the United Scouts
Declan Rice is the main goal, although rumors say that the Red Devils may search for cheaper options because the West Ham United midfielder is worth upwards of £80 million.
Palhinha is one of the players who has recently been connected with Manchester United, with reports claiming that the Premier League club is considering moves for him and PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo.
Palhinha has been watched by United scouts at least eight times this season to ensure he is a good fit for the club. The Red Devils were interested in signing the midfielder last summer, but the £33 million price tag scared them off.
Sporting Lisbon’s demand has now been reduced, and the Portuguese international will now be available for roughly £25 million. Palhinha is also wanted by Tottenham Hotspur, Wolves, and Newcastle United, according to the report.
Eyes on Palhinha
Manchester United’s interest in Palhinha is legitimate, as the Portuguese midfielder has been in excellent form for Sporting Lisbon this season. With an 86.6 pass success %, the 26-year-old star has scored three goals in Liga NOS this season. In addition, he has won 1.7 aerial duels per game.
Palhinha also averages 3.3 successful tackles per game, including 3.7 in the Champions League after six games for Sporting Lisbon. He appears to be a good choice for Manchester United, especially with a lot of outgoings expected in the midfield.
The Red Devils really need to strengthen their midfield, and the Portuguese midfielder may be a suitable alternative for the aging Matic. Palhinha could be tempted by a move to Manchester United this summer, given that his compatriots Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, and Cristiano Ronaldo are already there.
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