According to various sources, English giant Manchester United are eyeing highly rated Benfica youngster Goncalo Guedes, who is fast making a name for himself in the Portuguese league. According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Old Trafford scouts were in attendance at Benfica’s Champions League clash with Dinamo Kiev.
The forward has shown glimpses of brilliance and is very heavily linked with Arsenal as well. After recent speculation, the 19-year-old reiterated his wish to remain at Benfica and is not looking to move away from the Portuguese club. Benfica would also be unwilling to let go such a talent so early. But, Guedes’ current contract is reportedly having a £54m release clause.
If Manchester United or Arsenal meets the amount or offers a deal closer to it, Benfica is more than likely to accept it. However, considering Arsenal’s transfer policies, they are highly unlikely to bid such a huge for an unproven prospect. Manchester United comes out to be the only real bidder in the race.
The wonder kid has come up through the ranks of Benfica’s youth academy and is now a regular starter in the side. He already has 1 goal and bagged 3 assists in 9 appearances. In Champions League too he has 1 goal and 1 assist. Guedes fits in perfectly in the forward as well as in the attacking midfield role. He is adept at holding the ball, through balls, passes and especially in long shots.
He could be a real catch for the Red Devils, who sees in Guedes a similar figure like that of Cristiano Ronaldo. Guedes is however not quite that adept with his finishing but that could always be improved when playing with the likes of Juan Mata, Wayne Rooney, Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, as bright as the prospect looks at the moment, his career could well be over before it starts. The main reason being his age. At 179 cm, Guedes looks perfect for the forward role in the Premier league but, United boss Jose Mourinho is known to bring in talents and then loans them away, which has been a major problem with Chelsea. Guedes could face the same problem upon arriving at United. Hence, staying at Benfica could actually give him proper experience, considering he is bound to come to a big club with his talent.
Manchester United are currently going through a dismal start to a highly anticipated campaign and have been struggling to win despite having many stars in the team.
