Manchester United are in pursuit of Braga talent Roger Fernandes with boss Ruben Amorim certainly keen, though they are set to face competition from a number of Premier League clubs, according to reports in Portugal.
The Red Devils were busy laying the groundwork ahead of Geovany Quenda's prospective arrival from Sporting. The 17-year-old starlet was expected to touch down at Old Trafford soon to reunite with his ex-manager, but Chelsea ultimately swooped in to hijack the deal.
It has forced United to shift their attention elsewhere, as they look to rebuild the squad following a dismal 2024/25 campaign that has seen them languishing in the bottom half of the table.
United to Rival Premier League Clubs for Fernandes
The player has a €40 million (£33 million) release clause
As per Portuguese outlet O Jogo, United are "willing to fight" for Fernandes' signature, but will have to fend off interest from Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Brighton, Brentford and Fulham in order to complete a deal.
Both the Seagulls and the Cottagers, along with Chelsea, had reportedly opened talks regarding a move for the 19-year-old in January over an £18 million deal, and Braga president Antonio Salvador insisted Fernandes would cost more by the end of the season. O Jogo insists the Liga Portugal outfit are expected to demand near £25 million to sanction a transfer.
Roger Fernandes vs Geovany Quenda - 2024/25 Statistics comparison
Metric
Appearances
Minutes Played
Goals
Assists
Shots per 90
Shots on Target per 90
The vast array of interested suitors in Rogers is no surprise, as the player has been dubbed a "real gem" by scout Jacek Kulig. He has registered five goals and served up a further three assists in 44 outings in all competitions, demonstrating his importance to the team.
Amorim is thought to be particularly keen on landing Fernandes as an alternative to Quenda. The Bissau-born man has been praised for his speed and technique, and he functions in a similar role to his compatriot as a wide player.
Moreover, he has been described as having a "high-octane" approach which could suit the proposed high-intensity style of football at Manchester United.
Sign up to The GIVEMESPORT Report to get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim Related
Exclusive: Man Utd 'Admire' £67m 'Mix of Neymar and Mbappe' Ahead of Summer
Manchester United are in danger of being priced out of a move for Eintracht Frankfurt frontman Hugo Ekitike
Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 29/03/2025