Pranav Nair
Liverpool keeping tabs on Manchester United target Pedro Goncalves
According to Portuguese outlet Record (h/t The Mirror), Liverpool continue to keep tabs on Manchester United target Pedro Goncalves.
The Merseysiders look set for a busy summer after what is looking to be an unsuccessful defence of their Premier League crown. This has seen them turn their attention to Sporting Lisbon, a side Untied have benefitted from in the recent past.
The Portuguese giants are enjoying an excellent season and are currently top of the league. One of the key players in their rise to the top has been Goncalves.
The 22-year-old attacker is enjoying an exceptionally prolific season. He has so far made 15 appearances in the league, scoring 14 goals and making two assists. (h/t Transfermarkt)
A right-winger, Goncalves is also versatile enough to play in central midfield. His ability to pick out a pass and also move into channels makes him a difficult player to pin down.
Goncalves’ performances have not gone unnoticed, with United also keeping tabs on his progress. The Red Devils had enquired about the player in January but a deal could not be agreed upon.
A tough sell!
However, Sporting are not keen to sell the player. With a €60m release clause inserted in the 22-year-old’s contract, The Verde e brancos have an advantage heading into negotiations.
Another factor that could see Sporting demand a king’s ransom is the success experienced by Bruno Fernandes. The 26-year-old has been a revelation at United, leaving Sporting miffed wishing they had demanded a higher transfer fee. (h/t The Athletic)
With them also having to factor in a 50% sell-on clause with Goncalves’ previous club Famalicao, it is all but assured that the player won’t come cheap.
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Goncalves has experience of life in England, having spent two years at Wolverhampton Wanderers. During that time, he made just one senior appearance and was largely involved with the Under-23s.
At just 22, the youngster has a long way to go in his career. There is no reason why he cannot follow in the footsteps of both cristiano Ronaldo and Fernandes and joined United to realize his potential.
Whether we beat off interest from Liverpool remains to be seen.
