Bruno Fernandes
Keeping Bruno Fernandes beyond this summer will be huge for Man United
The summer transfer window will officially open on Sunday, June 1 and Manchester United will look to get some business early business done.
After experiencing their worst season since the 1973/74 campaign, United must get their business right this summer. Among the priorities is signing a proven goalscorer and a goalkeeper.
Keeping captain Bruno Fernandes beyond the summer would undoubtedly be a significant boost for the team, especially amid strong interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. With a £100 million bid reportedly being considered, the prospect of an official offer could test United’s resolve.
With that in mind, MEN Sport has taken a look at the latest headlines from in and around Old Trafford.
Amorim eyes Sporting CP star
Portuguese newspaper A Bola have suggested that Pedro Goncalves is on United's shortlist should Fernandes depart this summer. He has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia andThe Manchester Evening News understands the club have refused to rule out a potential sale for the 30-year-old.
The report adds that United are 'weighing up' whether to submit a proposal to Sporting for Goncalves. It’s believed that even if Fernandes stays, an offer for the 26-year-old could still be made.
However, Sporting are unlikely to let him leave for less than his €80 million (£67m) release clause. The Lions also intend to renew Goncalves’ contract, although the player is reportedly keen to wait a little longer to see how the market develops in his favour.
MEN Sport says: "Pote, as he's known, would be a major coup for United. Having worked under Amorim for over four years at Sporting, he's a player who fits seamlessly into the Portuguese manager's system. Despite primarily being a winger, Pote can also operate in midfield and has done so on numerous occasions under Amorim.
"The Reds' head coach is a known admirer of Goncalves, having frequently praised him during his managerial stint in Lisbon and built his team around the player."
Jean-Philippe Mateta update
The Reds have reportedly turned their attention to Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta after missing out on Liam Delap, who is believed to be keen on a £30m move to Chelsea.
However, talkSPORT now suggest that the Frenchman could sign a new contract with the Eagles ahead of their European campaign next season. Mateta's current deal runs until 2027.
Back in February, Paul Merson insisted that Mateta was the ideal player to help resolve their goalscoring woes. "Man United should get Mateta, that’s what they need," the ex-Arsenal and England star told Sky Sports.
"He’s a strong lad up front, playing at the top of his game, he leads the line, scoring goals now. He runs and works his socks off harder than anyone you know. He’s 100 times better than anyone Man United have in the front line. Not Amad [Diallo], he’s a young kid – but he’s much better than Hojlund and [Joshua] Zirkzee at the moment."
MEN Sport says: "I f true, this would be a major blow for Amorim and Co. in their bid to strengthen their attack. Unfortunately, the lack of European football would make it much more difficult to convince Mateta to move to Old Trafford. The club must begin exploring other alternatives to ensure their attacking ambitions are not derailed ahead of the new campaign."
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