Devesh Kumar
Transfer News: Manchester United will need to trigger Goncalo Ramos release clause to land him in January
SL Benfica president Rui Costa has confirmed that Portuguese striker Goncalo Ramos will not be sold in the January transfer window unless his release clause worth €120 million is paid amid interest from Manchester United.
The 21-year-old made the headlines when he scored a hat-trick during his country’s 6-1 win over Switzerland in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup last week. Such a performance unsurprisingly raised his profile and valuation.
Erik ten Hag is in need of a striker. Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract has been terminated, while Anthony Martial has struggled with fitness. This has left Marcus Rashford alone to lead the line, with the 25-year-old, not even a natural striker.
💣💥#SejaOndeFor #FifaWorldCup pic.twitter.com/B9WoC2oE1K
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) December 6, 2022
Ramos, who sees his current contract expire in 2026 has interest from the Red Devils. However, Costa’s comments could dampen the pursuit of the Manchester-based club (h/t Manchester Evening News).
“We have the sole objective of having a winning season, no player will leave – unless it is due to the clause – which at this moment is fundamental for the squad. What I can promise our supporters is what I did at the beginning of the year. This is a sporting project, not a financial one. Fortunately, we are not experiencing financial problems and we have no need to sell players.”
The 21-year-old has been in fine form for Benfica this season. The striker has made 21 appearances in all competitions, scoring 14 goals in the process. A young and talented striker with an eye for a goal, he would make a fantastic addition to the United squad.
However, his release clause is far more than what the Red Devils would expect to pay. With the Portuguese club likely to be adamant on their stand, United could wait for some more years before making a move.
United have other players shortlisted too to help strengthen their front line. Napoli star Victor Osimhen and PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo are other options that United could choose to pursue if a transfer for Ramos is not feasible.
More Manchester United News
- AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho considering January swoop for Manchester United star Aaron Wan-Bissaka
- Juventus set €30 million price tag on Weston McKennie amidst Manchester United interest
- Manchester United eye Portugal and SL Benfica star Goncalo Ramos as Cristiano Ronaldo successor
It is looking highly likely that Ten Hag will bring in a striker next month. Who the club manages to land is something that remains to be seen.
