Manchester United are now plotting a shock hijack on Barcelona to sign a South American wonderkid, according to recent reports.
Man Utd plotting shock Barcelona hijack
The Red Devils sent a timely reminder of the quality of their squad against Manchester City, as they swept Pep Guardiola's team aside to win 2-0 at Old Trafford.
It was a side freed from the shackles of Ruben Amorim's 3-4-2-1 system and handed the platform to thrive in what looked to be a tactical masterclass by interim boss Michael Carrick.
Man United manager Michael Carrick
There's still plenty of work to do, but to say it was the perfect start would be an understatement. The former Middlesbrough boss has reason for cautious optimism and even received praise from Roy Keane, who was initially unsure on his appointment.
Roy Keane said on Sky Sports: "Credit where it’s due, absolutely fantastic. Let’s judge it over the next few months. The key is now to get momentum into this team, belief, no other distractions, focus on the league matches. There are quality players, we know that.
“They’ve not been consistent enough. Today they’ve had a clean sheet and had two centre-halves and experienced players who can get a partnership together and stay injury free, and all those things can fall into place.
"Players coming off the bench having an effect. He’s done well today but let’s see over the next few months how he does.”
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The Red Devils are seeking an instant upgrade.
It's also an important few months for Man United in the transfer market. Midfield seems to be the focus to that end, with Elliot Anderson among their top options, but that hasn't stopped INEOS from looking further ahead to the future.
According to The Mirror's Ryan Taylor, Man United are now plotting a hijack to sign Rafael Belinho ahead of Barcelona in what would be an impressive move.
Man Utd could send statement with Belinho move
Man United have proved more than once in the last 12 months that they're still an attractive destination for players, winning transfer battles for the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Now, they could make another big statement by signing Belinho ahead of Barcelona.
The 17-year-old Brazilian already reportedly met with Deco - Barcelona's sporting director - in September and there is a belief that he is destined for the Nou Camp. Nothing is finalised at this stage, however, and both United and Arsenal are tracking the teenage wonderkid.
Described as "technically gifted" by U23 scout Antonio Mango last June, Belinho currently plays his football for Dinamo Zagreb's U19 side and has already squared off against Premier League opposition, facing Nottingham Forest's U21 side last year.
South American talents have stolen the headlines in England more than once in recent years and Man United should look to deal Barcelona the ultimate blow by signing a talent of their own this year.