Manchester United Interested In Signing Benfica Starlet
REUTERS/Maxim Zmeyev
Manchester United are set to make a move for Benfica right-back Nelson Semedo.
According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, the Red Devils have been monitoring Semedo for a number of months now, and will attempt to persuade Benfica to sell their 22-year-old full back during the January transfer window.
O Jogo also claim that United have had scouts keeping a close eye on the youngster’s progress in Portugal, and they were present during Benfica’s 2-0 away win over Belenenses on Sunday.
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These reports add weight to the rumours suggesting that Matteo Darmian could be on his way out of the club during the winter transfer window.
The Italian right-back has fallen out of favour at the Theatre of Dreams, with manager Jose Mourinho preferring Antonio Valencia as his first-choice full back. Darmian has been linked with a return to his native Italy, with Serie A giants Inter Milan keen on signing the defender either on loan, or on a permanent transfer.
Benfica value Nelson Semedo at around €40 million, a fee that United would have no issues with meeting. As content as Mourinho is with Ecuadorian winger-turned-defender Valencia, the Portuguese boss is determined to find a suitable back-up player who can challenge the 31-year-old for a place in the starting XI.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah will also be determined to fight for his place in the side. Having signed a new contract with United earlier this month, he has made three appearances for the club this season, and will hope to have more chances come his way as the season progresses.
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