Manchester United interested in Sporting Lisbon star

Manchester United have a brilliant history of signing players from Sporting Lisbon over the years. Of course, the first one that comes to mind is Cristiano Ronaldo, who had arrived at Old Trafford a teenager and by the time he departed the club in 2009 to join Real Madrid, he was the best player in the world. Since then, he has returned to the Theatre of Dreams for a second stint. Nani was another who had made the move and enjoyed a fantastic time in England.

More recently, Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon and he has been an absolute superstar since then.

Thus, whenever Manchester United are linked with a Sporting Lisbon player, there is a lot of excitement. And the latest name that the Red Devils are believed to have an interest in is Joao Palhinha.

As reported by the Mirror, Manchester United are interested in Palhinha, who has just signed a new deal with Sporting Lisbon. There is a £50 million release clause but it is believed that the Portuguese club will listen to offers north of £20 million, with add-ons. The Red Devils’ scouts are understood to have watched the defensive midfielder numerous times.

Manchester United are interested in Sporting Lisbon midfielder

Defensive midfield has been an area of weakness for Manchester United for some time now. In fact, the most natural player that the club have in that role is Nemanja Matic.

While a spectacular player in his prime, Matic is 33 years of age now and nowhere near as good as he was in the past.

Thus, it would not be much of a surprise to see Manchester United try to sign another defensive midfielder. Whether it is Sporting Lisbon’s Palhinha or not, remains to be seen.

The 26-year-old can be a solid addition for the Red Devils though. He has the physical attributes to be a success in the Premier League and has become a regular part of the Portugal national team recently as well.