Ankit Mishra
Transfer News: Manchester United interested in signing Porto midfielder Otavio but face Liverpool, Newcastle battle
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola (h/t Express), Manchester United are keen to sign Otavio from Porto for £50m but Liverpool and Newcastle United could also swoop for the player in the summer transfer window.
The 27-year-old Porto star signed a long-term contract with the club last year that includes a release clause worth £50m. However, it appears as though United and Liverpool are set to go all-in for the player this summer.
The player has grabbed the attention of giant Premier League clubs after being instrumental in winning the league with Porto this season. The Portuguese midfielder enjoys playing as an attacking midfielder and can move to the flanks in midfield depending on the gameplay.
Having scored five goals in 48 appearances, he has provided 13 crucial assists in all competitions this season for FC Porto. No wonder these three PL clubs are interested in signing the midfielder.
With the Reds seemingly looking up to Porto once again this summer, Klopp may have a mini-Porto reunion at Anfield with Otavio and Diaz potentially becoming teammates once again. Although the Red Devils have also jumped into the fray to sign the midfielder, the ball seems to be on Otavio’s court now.
Busy Summer for the Gaffer
Incoming United manager Erik ten Hag has a huge summer ahead of him. At this point, he would be smart to make all efforts to sign the player, especially after the dismal performance the club underwent this season.
With the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, and Juan Mata making their exit from the club this summer, the gaffer may want to rebuild his squad with new players to compete at the highest level. Otavio could use this to his advantage to join Old Trafford considering the fact that many players are set to leave.
With players like the 27-year-old FC Porto star linked with a move to the Theatre of Dreams, it is clear that Ten Hag is looking for a long-term solution to rebuild the team and win titles. While Otavio could enjoy his reunion with Diaz at Anfield, he may not necessarily get regular minutes all the time considering the heavyweights in the squad.
More Manchester United News
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First-team minutes can’t be guaranteed at Old Trafford either, going by what has transpired with former Ajax star Donny van de Beek, but on paper, United may have some wiggle room with regards to fitting him in their XI.
It remains to be seen if the Portuguese star makes a move to Old Trafford but if he does, he stands a chance to play alongside fellow Portuguese stars such as Diogo Dalot, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Bruno Fernandes, who all played in the Primeira Liga before their switch to Manchester United.
