Recent reports from Brazilian media outlet UOL (via Lance) state that Manchester United midfielder Andreas Pereira’s €20m buying clause could be triggered by Flamengo before his loan deal expires in June.
The Brazilian international secured a transfer this summer which saw him move from Manchester United to Flamengo on a season-long loan deal; however, it’d be an understatement to say that he hasn’t taken much time to impress at his new club.
With two goals in three starts in Brazilian Serie A, Pereira has hit the ground running at Maracana Stadium, and it doesn’t seem like he is going to slow down anytime soon. Added to that, he has managed to put up some awe-inspiring numbers on the board this term – averaging 1.4 shots, 0.4 key passes, 1.6 dribbles, one tackle, 0.6 interceptions, and 2.2 long balls per 90 minutes in the Brazilian top-flight. Furthermore, with an average WhoScored rating of 7.09, he has established himself as one of the best performing players of his division.
The dream start didn’t come easy for him. The 25-year-old was deployed in more of a defensive role in the middle of the park by manager Renato Portaluppi. Despite his preferred position being that of an attacking midfielder, he adjusted well to meet his coach’s demands, and it would be fair to state that it has paid off so far.
“He’s versatile, he’s a player I talked to even before I arrived at Flamengo.” – Portaluppi said in a recent press conference.
“He’s a player who has been tested in various positions for his quality. But he told me that he likes to play as a second defensive midfielder. So, this is where I’ve been putting him, in this position he’s been helping us, he’s been playing well.”
“He’s playing in his position, in the position he likes. He’s a player who knows how to defend, knows how to attack too, he has the quality to do so. That’s what I said, he is a player who is above average. Without a doubt, it was a great signing for Flamengo.”
A Good Move For All The Parties Involved?
For a player who has spent four of his last five seasons on loan, Andreas Pereira deserves all the success that is coming his way. Aged 25, regular game-time should be his first priority if he wishes to fulfil his potential in the upcoming years.
Given the presence of some world-class midfielders at Manchester United, it’s improbable that he’ll be securing regular minutes at Old Trafford, so a permanent move away seems to be the best for his future. Furthermore, the sum of €20m might help Ole Gunnar Solskjaer increase his budget for a new defensive midfielder next summer.
Away from Europe, the Brazilian international is free from the media pressure, and if he continues to put up performances like these on a weekly basis, Tite might get him into his plans for the World Cup 2022.
(Stats from WhoScored)
