MANCHESTER UNITED are lining up a shock move for Sporting Lisbon star Matheus Pereira as they plan ahead for next season, according to reports.
The 23-year-old is currently on loan at West Brom where he has quickly cemented himself as a fan favourite following a series of eye-catching displays.
Matheus Pereira has been a revelation during his loan at West BromCredit: PA:Empics Sport
Albion only shelled out a paltry £750,000 fee to land the Brazilian this campaign but they also have the option to sign Pereira for £8.25million.
That deal will automatically be triggered if Slaven Bilic’s side, who are top of the Championship, win promotion or Periera plays more than 32 matches.
However, according to the Mirror, his form won’t put off other admirers with the winger being tracked by several top-flight clubs, including United.
Pereira spent last season on loan at Nuremberg in the Bundesliga and before that, with Portuguese side Chaves after struggling to cement his place at Sporting.
Pereira is a bargain. Sometimes he does too many sexy things. But is he good? Yes, he’s good
Slaven Bilic
Baggies boss Bilic has already admitted that the attacking midfielder has been a bargain, jokingly replying to the Express & Star: “Yes – if we get promotion.
“No, you’re right, Pereira is a bargain anyway.
“But it’s still early days. He also has to stay focused and lift the bar.
“Sometimes he does too many sexy things.
“But is he good? Yes, he’s good. Very good, I love him, but he has to be even more ruthless.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also planning to raid the Championship for Leeds duo Kalvin Phillips and Ben White as he looks to overhaul his squad.
SunSport exclusively revealed that Old Trafford No2 Mike Phelan went for a personal check on Elland Road midfield general Phillips in their 1-0 win over Birmingham City last month.
While on-loan Brighton star White has already been linked with a £20million deal to rivals Liverpool as they look to replace Dejan Lovren.
United’s last foray into the second-division has already yielded positive results, after Dan James’ stunning start to the season following his move from Swansea.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
