Red Devils Eye Former City Full-Back Amid Speculation of Future Signing
Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing a former Manchester City standout, though separate reports indicate that a deal for a much younger alternative has already been agreed upon.
Last month, United made just one senior signing, securing Patrick Dorgu to bolster their wing-back options. In an unexpected tactical decision, Dorgu was fielded on the right side during his debut against Leicester in the FA Cup. However, according to the Manchester Evening News, the long-term strategy is to position him on his natural left side.
As a result, United are now actively searching for a right-sided full-back for the summer and beyond. According to a striking report from Fichajes, they are among three clubs monitoring Joao Cancelo.
Cancelo on United’s Radar
The 30-year-old right-back, formerly of Manchester City, was transferred to Al-Hilal last summer for a fee of £21.2 million. During his time in England, Cancelo was recognized as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League, earning back-to-back PFA Team of the Year selections in 2021 and 2022.
A reported fallout with manager Pep Guardiola led to loan stints at Bayern Munich and Barcelona before he eventually moved to Saudi Arabia. Despite the shift, Cancelo has thrived in the Saudi Pro League, prompting renewed interest from top European clubs, including Manchester United, Aston Villa, and AC Milan, according to Fichajes.
The Portuguese defender’s ability to provide width and attacking prowess on the right side could offer balance to United’s defense, allowing Dorgu to establish himself on the left. However, at 30 years old, Cancelo would be a short-term solution rather than a long-term investment.
Under the guidance of the INEOS ownership, United are aiming to steer away from short-sighted transfers, raising doubts about the legitimacy of Fichajes‘ claims. Additionally, reports from Portugal suggest that United may have already secured a younger option for the right-wing-back role.
United ‘Seal’ Deal for Geovany Quenda
In late January, Portuguese outlet A Bola reported that Manchester United had effectively wrapped up negotiations to reunite manager Ruben Amorim with Geovany Quenda.
The 17-year-old, known for his versatility, can operate as a winger but was predominantly deployed as a right wing-back during Amorim’s final months at Sporting CP before his appointment at Old Trafford.
The article’s headline read: “Manchester United have already secured Quenda for the summer,” reinforcing the claim that the Red Devils have finalized the move.
Further emphasizing the certainty of the transfer, A Bola stated: “Manchester United have completed the signing of Geovany Quenda. Not in this winter window, but for the summer, a transfer that, according to our sources, is guaranteed. The 17-year-old winger will join the club for the 2025/26 season.”
While A Bola portrayed the transfer as a done deal, The Athletic‘s David Ornstein provided a more cautious outlook. He confirmed that United are indeed ‘exploring’ the possibility of signing Quenda but refrained from declaring the deal finalized.
Nevertheless, Ornstein provided further insights, revealing that if United proceed with the transfer, it would likely cost them around €40 million (£33.3m).
“Manchester United are considering a move to sign winger Geovany Quenda from Sporting CP this summer,” Ornstein reported.
One person who wouldn’t be surprised by Quenda’s move to Manchester is his former youth coach, Bernardo Bruschy.
Speaking to A Bola, Bruschy commented: “It’s remarkable to see his name linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs at such an early stage. However, given his talent, I wouldn’t be surprised if he reaches that level.”
Bruschy further praised the youngster’s maturity, stating: “We often forget that Quenda is just 17 years old. His intelligence, technical ability, and the impact he already has on matches are extraordinary. His maturity is far beyond what’s expected for a player his age, and while he still has a lot of room to grow, he is already performing at a level that sets him apart.”
Other United Transfer Updates – Striker Alternatives & Antony’s Future
In additional transfer developments, Manchester United are exploring more cost-effective striking options. Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has emerged as a potential alternative if the club fails to secure deals for either Viktor Gyokeres or Victor Osimhen.
Meanwhile, Real Betis have signaled their intent to permanently sign Brazilian winger Antony, who is currently on loan in La Liga. The loan agreement does not include a mandatory purchase clause, but Betis CEO Ramon Alarcon has already expressed optimism about making the move permanent.
When asked if Betis could retain Antony beyond this season, Alarcon responded: “I believe so.
“The other day, Manchester United’s CEO contacted me. We regularly update them on Antony’s progress and ensure they see how well he is adapting.
“We have a great relationship with Manchester United and with the player himself. There’s a real possibility that he could stay with us next season—why not?”