MANCHESTER UNITED are looking for at least one new central midfielder, with two preferred for Erik ten Hag.
Man Utd Nunes, Matheus
Manchester United should try to sign Matheus Nunes from Sporting CP. (Image courtesy)
Manchester United have been connected with Porto's Vitinha in recent days, but there is an even better midfield acquisition from the Primeira Liga on the way. Simply ask Pep Guardiola. Matheus Nunes of Sporting is getting people talking, not least because of ongoing transfer rumors linking him to a summer move to the Premier League.
United are not currently in the running, with Newcastle, Wolves, and Everton named as prospective suitors, but the Red Devils should seriously consider entering the race, given Nunes' versatility.
He's no Darwin Nunez, but he's an all-action, technically skilled virtuoso who can stamp his authority on the game.
Nunes has quickly established himself in the Portuguese capital, going from a young, fresh-faced child to one of the country's most reliable performances in a short of years.
The 23-year-old appears certain to make Portugal's World Cup team in November, and he's only going to get better.At his present rate of development, he is on track to become one of Europe's best of his kind.
Man Utd Nunes, Matheus
Man United would be wise to sign Matheus Nunes (Image: GETTY)
United could consider throwing their hat into the ring, considering that Vitinha appears to have some legs.
Last year at this time, the 22-year-old was notified that Wolves would not exercise their option to buy him, and he returned to Porto.
Now, a huge move could pay dividends, but there will be doubts about Vitinha's ability to succeed in England.
Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has already declared Nunes to be one of the top players in the world.
"Sporting are a terrific team, they are the champions of Portugal, which has a very good league, with Porto and Benfica, they change the ball well, they have fast and intelligent players," he remarked in February after City's first-leg Champions League quarterfinal triumph over the Portuguese side.
"I believe Matheus Nunes is one of the top players in the world right now." Despite the difficulties and mistakes, I have to be pleased since we made a significant stride toward the next round."
Nunes is primarily a No. 8 but can also play in defensive or attacking midfield. He is currently valued at £31.5 million by Transfermarkt, which is less than Vitinha's £34 million release clause.
Whether Sporting will sanction his exit at that price is another question entirely, as Nunes has demonstrated a willingness to stay with his current club for the foreseeable future.
Manchester United's Vitinha
Manchester United has been linked with Vitinha (Image: GETTY)
"My goal is to complete the contract (through 2026)," he told the Portuguese daily Correio da Manha.
"I'm under contract with Sporting. It's pointless to transfer me. Sporting has made me joyful. The Portuguese league is fantastic."
United do, however, have two secret weapons in the form of Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.
Both have strong ties to their previous club Sporting, and they both play for the Portugal national team alongside Nunes.
If he expresses a desire in a move to the Premier League, there is no reason why he wouldn't be willing to join United if they were willing to commit to the player.
Nunes is a generational talent with a massive potential, and if United are going to explore the Portuguese market, they would be silly not to contemplate a raid for the Sporting man.
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