Whatever criticisms you may have of Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal, you couldn’t say that he is predictable.
The signing of Anthony Martial is the prefect example of him pulling the wool over everyone’s eyes in the transfer market. Martial, a relative unknown, arrived for huge money on 1st September 2015 to the surprise of almost everyone in the media.
To that end there may be a move in the offing that we have no idea about.
But, in terms of what’s going on in the rumour mill at the moment, it looks as if Benfica creator Renato Sanches is the most likely arrival at Manchester United at this point.
The 18-year-old would certainly get the hearts racing at Manchester United and is the sort of signing that the fans crave.
Because he is a spectacular footballer and one full to the brim with promise.
He would obviously take time to settle but could provide another point of attack for Manchester United and, in so doing, take some of the weight from the shoulders of Anthony Martial.
The BBC passed this on last night:
Manchester United are in advanced negotiations with Benfica over the signing of midfielder Renato Sanches, 18. (O Jogo via Metro)
Meanwhile The Daily Mail wrote over the last few days:
Benfica midfielder Renato Sanches is a firm target. The 18-year-old has a buy-out clause of nearly £60million but United are negotiating hard. The Portuguese giants have put a high price on the teenager but are expected to sell for around half that sum, with add-ons.
And the Benfica coach is quoted by The Metro as saying that the future is beyond his control:
Benfica coach Rui Vitoria says midfielder Renato Sanches could be set to leave the club amid Manchester United interest.
And now Vitoria has talked up the 18-year-old for a switch away from the club when quizzed about United’s interest.
‘This situation is not difficult for us. If things happen, they happen.
‘We all know that’s the way it is. There is no point in worrying over things that have yet to happen.
Manchester United fans would certainly give a thumbs up to this move and would rather see a promising creator come in than another defensive reinforcement.
Let’s have a look at Sanches in action.
Manchester United fans: perfect addition?
