Manchester United have reportedly agreed to a deal for the talented wonderkid Geovany Quenda from Sporting CP.
According to the Portuguese outlet A Bola, the 17-year-old player is set to follow former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim to Old Trafford this summer.
The Portugal youth international, who turns 18 in April, will cost United a staggering £50.2 million.
Amorim is eager to reunite with the young prodigy after previously working together before his own move to Manchester United in November.
The report indicates that United’s interest in Quenda dates back prior to the Amorim era, with scouts monitoring the starlet for some time.
Amorim, credited with launching Quenda’s career, aims to continue their association, although a move in January was also discussed between both clubs.
Despite his young age, Quenda has made 34 appearances for the Portuguese league leaders, starting in 26 matches while scoring two goals and providing four assists.
Initially trained as a winger, Quenda was utilized in a wing-back role during Amorim’s tenure at Sporting.
“He’s very talented, very mature and understands the game like an adult,” Amorim stated on Sporting TV last summer.
“He obviously has a lot to improve on, but I think he had an excellent game and we have a player there.”
After Amorim’s departure, Quenda returned to a winger position; although primarily a left-footer, he is adept at playing on either flank.
His versatility in both defensive and attacking roles aligns with Amorim’s philosophy, with incoming Patrick Dorgu expected to exhibit similar attributes.
Although born in Guinea-Bissau, Quenda has chosen to represent Portugal at the international level, having played for the Esperanças at under-17 and under-21 levels.
His impressive performances led to a first call-up to Roberto Martinez’s senior squad in August for the Nations League matches against Croatia and Scotland, though he did not play in either game.
Quenda will be closely watching United as the season progresses, as Amorim looks to elevate his inconsistent side in the Premier League standings.
The Red Devils currently sit 12th in the table after a tumultuous start to Amorim’s management.
Despite achieving commendable results, including victories over Arsenal and Manchester City, as well as a credible draw against Liverpool at Anfield, United has also suffered disappointing defeats.
Home losses to Nottingham Forest, Brighton, and Bournemouth, along with a defeat at Wolves, have cast shadows over Old Trafford.
Their best chance for Champions League qualification lies in the Europa League, with United securing a spot in the round of 16 after a 2-0 victory against FCSB on Thursday.
Amorim is also eyeing success in the FA Cup, with a fourth-round match against Leicester City approaching.
United’s immediate focus is on Sunday’s match at home against Crystal Palace, where a win could propel them past Brentford into 11th place.
