Manchester United's interest in a potential wonderkid winger has been knocked back, as FootMercato reports that talks have opened with a rival club for their signature.
The Red Devils are keen to bolster their whole squad after confirming a return to the Champions League next season, with an increased playing schedule and step up in quality set to test the managerial acumen of Michael Carrick to the extremes.
The midfield has been the main area of focus so far, with the central ranks in more immediate need of improvement following Casemiro's exit as a free agent.
Beyond several potential moves there, Man United are also looking at options to bring some quality to the forward ranks who can compete with the likes of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko.
A particular emphasis is set to be placed on promising talents for the future, but one target could now move elsewhere.
Afonso Moreira Transfer Talks
Afonso Moreira gestures after Lyon vs PSGManon Cruz Via Reuters
Manchester United have shown interest in a move for Lyon winger Afonso Moreira, after the 21-year-old star impressed in Ligue 1 over the previous campaign.
Reports claimed that the Red Devils had made contact for Moreira to land a potential bargain deal for the Portuguese forward, who looks set for an exit over the summer.
However, according to FootMercato, Bayer Leverkusen have opened talks with Lyon to try and get a deal over the line for the star in the coming days.
It comes as the French club need to sell by June 30th to comply with finance rules in the division, with Atletico Madrid among the other teams to express interest.
Leverkusen's push to sign Moreira comes as a blow to Man United, who may struggle to guarantee game time for the youngster as he looks to progress.
Missing out on the youngster, who has been described as "talented", would be a potential missed opportunity to land a future star.
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Man United Forward Depth
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks on after Premier League win against Nottingham Forest
Manchester United need to add forward depth, but the wide areas may not be as much of a priority as the centre-forward role this summer.
On the wings, Cunha and Mbeumo are regular options, backed up with quality in Amad Diallo and Patrick Dorgu, who have chipped in plenty over the past season.
Up front may be more of a consideration because of a potential exit for Joshua Zirkzee. That would leave just Benjamin Sesko as a regular centre-forward.
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A versatile option such as Iliman Ndiaye could be on the cards, as he is capable of playing as a central striker, as well as on the wings if required.
It remains to be seen who could be next up, but it looks unlikely to be Moreira.