Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim is expected to pick Amad Diallo as a wingback next season, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Red Devils have been tracking Braga star Roger Fernandes for several months and he has impressed whilst playing for Portugal at the European Under-21 Championships over the past couple of weeks.
However, speaking to United In Focus, Bailey said that while there is still interest in signing Fernandes, Amad’s positional switch means it is not an area of the pitch that will be prioritised for reinforcements:
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“Things have changed at United with their targets indicating Amad will be played as a right wing-back from this point forward, and in that case, I don’t think Fernandes can be seen as a priority.”
“However, United are doing options and still like him, while the fact that he can play in a number of positions also appeals.”
Why has Fernandes been a Man United target?
The Red Devils were originally pursuing Sporting Lisbon’s Geovany Quenda before Chelsea hijacked the deal. It was then claimed that Fernandes had been identified as an alternative.
With the 19-year-old having a release clause worth €40m (£34m) in his contract, it would have been a straightforward deal to negotiate.
Is Amad ready to play at wingback?
The Ivorian started 10 games as part of the back five last season. During those fixtures, he found the back of the net 4 times and provided 4 assists.
Of course, Amad may need to improve on the defensive side of his game but it does demonstrate that he would be a much greater threat than Diogo Dalot going forward. The fullback had the same number of goal involvements (8) in 53 appearances for United last campaign.
In other news, we explain why Man United should consider tabling a swap deal involving Marcus Rashford and an Aston Villa player