The latest in Manchester United's pursuit of Sporting CP teenage sensation Geovany Quenda remains centre-stage. With the Red Devils keen on strengthening their squad with young blood, reports have suggested the Premier League giants are closing in on a €60 million deal for the 17-year-old star.
Quenda has been one of the breakout stars in Portuguese football this season, an attacking winger who can play anywhere across the front line. Having made his senior debut under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP, his rapid development saw him called up to Portugal's senior national team-a quite remarkable achievement for someone so young. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Manchester United showing keen interest even before Amorim's reported move to Old Trafford.
Man Utd's Interest in Quenda Intensifies
Speculation surrounding Quenda's future has continued to gain momentum in recent weeks. Portuguese outlet A Bola recently reported that Manchester United had already 'snapped up' the Sporting CP winger for the summer in a deal worth around €60 million.
However, other sources have been more reserved. The Athletic did confirm that United are actively looking at Quenda, but downplayed the likelihood of a formal bid at this stage. They also suggested that, while his release clause stands at €100 million, the actual transfer fee would likely be closer to €40 million.
Whatever the case may be, what is not doubted is that Quenda is on the radar of Manchester United and a summer move is looking most possible.
Former Coach Backs Quenda's Move to a Top Club
Adding more fuel to the speculation, one of Quenda's former youth coaches, Bernardo Bruschy, spoke out about the young star's massive potential. During an interview with A Bola, Bruschy mentioned that Quenda is more than capable of making the leap to one of Europe's biggest clubs.
Only his name being in the same conversations as some of Europe's giants surprises me simply because of his age, but I'm not surprised that people are interested, said Bruschy.
Sometimes we forget Quenda is 17 years old. His maturity, his quality, and the level of performances he puts into the team, it's out of this world.
Bruschy underlined that, though still very young, Quenda is well ahead in his development process. "He still has a lot to learn and improve, but his current level of maturity is well beyond what is normal for a player of his age. That's why top clubs are monitoring him closely."
What Makes Geovany Quenda Special?
Quenda has risen through the ranks in rapid time in Portuguese football, something that has left many scouts impressed. Here are a few attributes that make him an exciting prospect for Manchester United:
- Versatility on the Wings
Quenda has shown that he can operate well from either flank. For Sporting CP, the manager Ruben Amorim has used him mainly on the right side of the flank with the versatility to adapt easily, but his attacking instincts, though, mean he could fit in a more advanced capacity at United.
- Explosive Pace and Dribbling Ability
Some of the stand-out characteristics of Quenda include his blazing speed. Capable of beating defenders in one-on-ones, Quenda is dangerous on counter-attacks, hence suitable for Manchester United's style of play in attack.
- Tactical Awareness and Maturity
At the tender age of 17 years, Quenda has a presence in the game that is surprisingly calm. Contrary to his peers, the player's excellent decision-making ability, positional sense, and astute reading of the game also make him outstanding.
- Defensive Work Rate
Quenda has grown in terms of defensive qualities, having played as a wing-back at some point. He doesn't hesitate to track back and help out defensively, thus covering both phases of the game for any team he represents.
- International Recognition
Getting called up to the senior national team of Portugal at 17 years speaks volumes about Quenda's potential. Definitely seen by the Portuguese Football Federation as a star of the future, his international experience will most definitely quicken the pace of development.
How Would Quenda Fit Into Manchester United's System?
With United in transition under the new management, the club wants young and dynamic talents to shape their future. Here's how Quenda could fit into United's squad:
Right Wing Depth: With Jadon Sancho's future up in the air and Antony really struggling for form, Quenda could provide competition on the right wing.
Tactical Flexibility: His ability to play multiple positions would give the manager more options in different formations.
Signing Quenda would be a long-term investment and align with United's strategy of securing top young talents for the future.
What's Next for Quenda and Man Utd?
While reports are mixed on the progress of the deal, it cannot be doubted that Manchester United are serious about their pursuit of Geovany Quenda. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the young Portuguese talent makes the highly anticipated move to Old Trafford.
If United is able to work out a deal, Quenda might just become one of the most exciting youngsters to have arrived in the Premier League for years. For now, though, the fan will just have to be patient as this story evolves toward the summer transfer window.
