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Ruben Amorim needs another wingback at Manchester United in the summer following the January acquisition of Patrick Dorgu from Lecce.
The Dane has started strongly on the left with Diogo Dalot currently occupying the right wingback slot but the Portugal international has struggled to provide the required attacking impetus.
The United head coach was eyeing a reunion with his Sporting CP protege Geovany Quenda who had promised he would come to Old Trafford even if there was no Champions League football on offer.
But instead, the Portuguese wonderkid headed to Chelsea and now, the Red Devils will have to find the perfect alternative.
Roger is an upgrade on Quenda
United are keeping an eye on Braga’s Roger Fernandes with O Jogo claiming the 20-time English league champions are in the lead and Amorim will have the final say on the matter.
The 19-year-old has a €40 million release clause and Braga will not let him leave for less than €30 million, which might deter potential suitors.
But if Roger ends the season with a bang, interest is likely to increase and Braga president António Salvador could earn a record fee from his sale.
The Portuguese, much like Quenda, can play on either flank and can double up as a winger if required. But he excels on the right and is left-footed and has five goals, more than Quenda, and as many assists this season.
He is in the 97th percentile for progressive carries and 98th percentile for successful take-ons, which shows his ability with the ball (as per fbref), better than the Chelsea-bound star.
Football Analysis have described him as an “electric, pacey winger known for his fearless and confident play” who is also known for being “an explosive 1v1 specialist”.
United in pole position
“Roger’s future is being planned for England. After approaches and some due diligence in the last winter transfer window, the English interest remains firm, despite the recent injury that forced him to stop, and it will not fade at the end of the season.
“According to what JOGO has learned, a significant contingent of Premier League players are eager to get hold of the winger. Among them, Manchester United stands out, willing to fight for the young Guinean prodigy, aged 19, as they recognise in him an immense talent and potential similar to that of Quenda, a target who escaped to Chelsea.
“Rúben Amorim will certainly have a strong say in the matter. But there are other clubs paying attention. Offers are certain to be on the table for António Salvador, although the demand for 30 million euros may deter some suitors. However, this should not be enough to prevent his departure.”
Manchester City, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Brighton, Brentford and Fulham have all been mentioned as interested clubs and it will be interesting to see which English club ultimately secures his signature.
Feature image Octavio Passos via Getty Images
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