Manchester United's Interest in Geovany Quenda

Manchester United is setting its sights on Sporting CP's electrifying winger, Geovany Quenda. The club's new manager, Ruben Amorim, is eager to bring this teenage prodigy to Old Trafford, but they face fierce competition from city rivals, Manchester City.

Quenda's Rising Star

Rated as one of the hottest prospects within the Sporting ranks, the 17-year-old Quenda has made a significant impact this season. His rise to prominence has not gone unnoticed, with scouts from Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, and even Juventus keenly observing his performances. Quenda's potential is evident, and many believe he's on the brink of superstardom.

Scouts Watching

United's scouts were in attendance during Sporting's recent matches, including a standout performance against Famalicão where Quenda scored, and a brief six-minute cameo against Sturm Graz. This level of scrutiny from top Premier League clubs underscores both Quenda's talent and the competition for his signature.

Transfer Challenges and Competition

However, securing Quenda won't be easy. Currently binding him to Sporting is a hefty release clause of €100 million (approximately £84 million or $104 million), which the club is unwilling to negotiate on, making it a tough endeavor for potential suitors. Since he just turned 17, clubs can only initiate a move come the summer transfer window.

City's Interest

Manchester City is reported to be particularly keen on the winger, leading the charge in the race for his talents. With Amorim newly appointed at Manchester United, there could be a significant shift in transfer strategies tailored to bolster the team’s attacking options, especially as Antony has been deemed surplus to requirements.

Amorim's Overall Strategy

As Amorim steps into his new role, he is reportedly eyeing additional players from Sporting, including Marcus Edwards, Pedro Gonçalves, and Gonçalo Inácio, to strengthen his squad. Edwards could fill the void left by Antony, albeit negotiating a deal for Gonçalves is projected to be challenging due to Sporting's valuation. Inácio, on the other hand, has a €60 million release clause, making him another valuable target.

Shifting the Squad

Adding layers to the narrative, sources reveal that Amorim is prepared to offload up to four United players, including Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelöf, shifting the team’s focus and finances for potential incoming transfers.

Who is Geovany Quenda?

Born in Guinea-Bissau in April 2007 and relocated to Portugal at a young age, Quenda showcased his football prowess early on by climbing through youth ranks at Damaiense and Benfica, before joining Sporting CP in 2021. His accolades came quickly: he became the youngest player to don Sporting's reserve kit at just 16 years old, impressing the first-team manager.

Record Breaker

Notably, Quenda has rewritten history for the club, becoming its youngest-ever goalscorer at 17 years and 95 days, a record previously held by icons like Cristiano Ronaldo. Furthermore, he made headlines by starting in a Champions League match against Lille, marking him as the youngest Portuguese player to achieve this feat.

International Career

His international career is blooming as well; Quenda has represented Portugal at various youth levels, even earning a call-up to the senior squad. Coaches have praised his maturity and skill set, indicating that his age is no barrier to his performance at high levels.

Looking Forward

As Manchester United looks ahead to the upcoming transfer window, the quest for Geovany Quenda may redefine the future of their attacking line-up. Will Amorim succeed in adding this rising star to his roster? Stay tuned!