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Manchester United blow in the chase for 23-year-old starlet as player is set to sign new contract

LISBON, PORTUGAL - DECEMBER 15: Pedro Goncalves of Sporting CP during the Portuguese League Cup match between Sporting CP and CD Mafra at Estadio Jose Alvalade on December 15, 2020 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Transfer News: Manchester United blow in chase for Pedro Goncalves

According to transfer news from IB Times, Manchester United have received a blow in their pursuit of Pedro Goncalves. The Sporting CP starlet is close to putting pen to paper on a new contract that will see his release clause stand at a staggering €80million.

Goncalves is a player who is coming into his own as a top-class performer. The 23-year-old has been prolific for Sporting Lisbon and has scored 23 goals and 5 assists in just 37 games this season (h/t Transfermarkt). His goals propelled the Portuguese giants to the Primeira Liga title last season.

Goncalves has been prolific for Sporting

A right-winger, Goncalves is also versatile enough to play in central midfield. His ability to pick out a pass and also get into scoring position should pique United’s interest. Goncalves also has experience of life in England, having spent two years at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Dubbed as the ‘next Ronaldo’, Goncalves was on the radar of United as a replacement for Paul Pogba. However, United might not be able to repeat what they did with Fernandes 18 months back. The 23-year-old is set to extend his stay at Sporting and the new deal will raise his release clause to €80million.

VILA NOVA DE FAMALICAO, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 05: Pedro Goncalves of Sporting CP reacts during the Liga NOS match between FC Famalicao and Sporting CP at Estadio Municipal 22 de Junho on December 05, 2020 in Vila Nova de Famalicao, Portugal.

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With such a mammoth release clause set to be applied, it is unlikely that United go ahead for Goncalves. While he is a talented player, United might not think of a move this summer at least. This is definitely something to keep an eye out for in the future.

Written by George Baker

Full-time football fan, half-time football writer. Way too big of a Manchester United fan. GGMU.

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