Manchester United and Manchester City now clash over Sporting CP’s latest transfer target. United aim to secure up to four stars, with all eyes on Francisco Trincao.
Ruben Amorim enjoyed a stellar run at Sporting CP from March 2020 to November 2024. He led the club to two league titles, three league cups, and one domestic super cup. His achievements spurred United to act after Erik ten Hag’s exit.
Amorim planned to wait until the season ended out of respect for Sporting. However, United pushed him with a “now or never” move to Old Trafford.
United briefly eyed Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres for a January move. Amorim shut down that rumor. He may, however, reunite with several former players at United this summer.
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
Portuguese outlet A Bola named Trincao as United’s top transfer wish. Amorim and United’s recruitment chiefs value him highly. The former Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee has racked up nine goals and 13 assists in 40 appearances this season.
Trincao shines as a right winger or a central attacking midfielder. His left-footed flair and creativity light up the pitch. Yet, Manchester City also chase him. Hugo Viana, City’s incoming sporting director, wants the 25-year-old to join him at the Etihad.
United remain active in the Sporting transfer market. Gyokeres stands out as Amorim’s dream striker target to replace Rasmus Hojlund. Right wing-back Geovany Quenda fits perfectly in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, and talks for him are advancing quickly.
United also eye midfielder Morten Hjulmand as they look to move on from Casemiro. They target Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, whose release clause is set at £51m. GiveMeSport claims United pursue him ahead of Arsenal and Liverpool. Real Betis now push for Antony permanently, with Juventus in the mix. Sir Jim Ratcliffe warned against signing players for specific managers, adding risk to this bold strategy.
