According to Goal (h/t Daily Express), Manchester United have been linked with Sporting Lisbon youngster Eduardo Quaresma.
The 18-year-old centre-back arrived at Sporting Lisbon in 2011 from G.D. Fabril’s academy and has risen through the ranks and has now established himself as a key player under new boss Rúben Amorim.
Quaresma made his senior debut for Sporting in June in a 2-2 draw with Vitoria and has been a regular in the side ever since, making eight appearances in total.
The young Portuguese’s rock-solid displays at the back saw him keep four clean sheets in the process, eventually establishing himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. Quaresma’s recent performances at the back for Sporting has now attracted the likes of several European heavyweights including Manchester United.
However, the Red Devils will have a hard time securing his services as the Portuguese side are determined to keep their young star at the Jose Alvalade Stadium. With the youngster clearly turning a few heads in Europe, Sporting subsequently tied him to the side with a new five-year deal, which expires in June 2025 and includes a £40.9million release clause.
The Red Devils had secured the signature of Englishman Harry Maguire last summer and he has played a key role in helping them climb to third place in the league rankings. However, Solskjaer would be aware it is not enough to get his side back to the top next season, with 15 points separating them from second-placed Manchester City and a massive 33 points from champions Liverpool.
Also, United have concerns regarding Eric Bailly, who once again got injured in the FA Cup semi-final clash against Chelsea. Bailly had recently returned to the side following a long injury lay off and his constant troubles with injuries mean United need to look for new faces at the back.
Apart from Bailly, United have Swede Victor Lindelof, who has mostly partnered Maguire in defence this season but he also has a tendency to be prone to errors at times. It is true that if a move happens for Quaresma, he would not be a guaranteed starter at Old Trafford, with the likes of Axel Tuanzebe, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones waiting in line.
However, he exactly fits the mould of young and hungry talent with which Solskjaer is trying to build a squad at Manchester United.
Solskjaer’s decision to keep faith in his side’s young talents has borne fruit this season, with youngsters and summer signings such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Daniel James establishing themselves as first-choice players. Quaresma could be seen as a similar addition and it would be wise if United continue with their efforts to land him.
Manchester United’s decision to stick with the side’s young guns have so far been a success and they should similarly land rising talent Quaresma. Moreover, he is just 18 and can undergo further development under the guidance of a manager like Solskjaer.
