United may have to move quickly if they want to secure the Portuguese starlet, as local rivals Manchester City are also keeping tabs on the situation. The Citizens possess a potential secret weapon in sporting director Hugo Viana, the man who originally brought Mateus to Sporting Lisbon and oversaw his development in the Portuguese capital.
With Bernardo Silva expected to end his legendary nine-year stint at the Etihad this summer, City are in the market for creative reinforcements. However, the emotional pull of following in the footsteps of his idol at Old Trafford could give United the edge. As Bruno prepares to decide his own future following the World Cup, ensuring his namesake is ready to step into his shoes could be his final parting gift to the Red Devils.