Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly preparing to launch a formal proposal to sign Sporting CP forward Flavio Goncalves, as per Caught Offside.
The 19-year-old started his youth career at CSM Rosny-sur-Seine before spending a few years with Rio Ave. He joined the Lions’ academy at the age of 12.
After coming through their youth system, the youngster made his first-team debut last year. Initially, he took time to adapt to the top-flight football before featuring regularly this season.
In nine appearances across all competitions, Goncalves has scored three goals and registered a solitary assist.
Now, Caught Offside state that after being impressed by Goncalves’ recent eye-catching performances, Man Utd and Chelsea are preparing to launch a formal proposal worth up to £42m to buy him in January.
However, with the player’s existing deal set to run until 2030, Sporting don’t want to let him leave unless his potential suitors trigger his £50m[€60m] release clause.
The report further state that the Portuguese giants are planning to hand him a fresh term to increase his release clause up to £84m[€100m]. But the negotiations between the two parties haven’t progressed at all yet.
On the other hand, it is unclear whether Goncalves is committed to staying at Jose Alvalade Stadium. Chelsea are even confident of persuading him to join, as they have a good relationship with Sporting, having previously signed Geovany Quenda.
Battle
Goncalves is a right-footed left-winger by trait. He is quick, technically sound, can dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, and is efficient in creating opportunities for fellow attackers.
Man Utd currently have Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford as left-wing options. However, the duo have displayed below-average performances thus far this season.
On the other hand, Chelsea have Morgan Rogers and Jamie Gittens as left-wing options; moreover, Pedro Neto can provide cover in this position if needed.
Goncalves is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd or Chelsea should either club purchase him.
However, it is going to be…
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