Man Utd weigh up 'cut price' alternative to Quenda showing great promise in Portugal

Ruben Amorim desperately needs a new signing in this position and Manchester United now have two stars in mind.

The Reds are sounding out alternatives to Sporting ace Geovany Quenda and are interested in Braga star Roger Fernandes as they look for a new right wing-back who can shine in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation.

Amorim has used several different players in the position this campaign but does not have a specialist who truly matches his tactics. Alejandro Garnacho would rather play as a winger, Diogo Dalot lacks threat in the final third, while Noussair Mazraoui is better on the right side of the back three.

United have identified Quenda as a target for the summer and have held talks with Sporting to try and reunite him with Amorim.

It was recently claimed that United have agreed personal terms with Quenda, but TEAMtalk understands that is not the case just yet. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, United officials are concerned that the 17-year-old might prove to be too expensive to sign.

Total Football Analysis describe him as an ‘explosive’ player who ‘specialises’ in one-vs-one situations. Fernandes is pacy and also has ‘outstanding vision’, which allows him to regularly put ‘precise’ crosses into the box.

If United fail to sign Quenda this summer, then Fernandes could end up being a great alternative. Meanwhile, reports in France claim that United have opened dialogue with Crystal Palace over Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Palace want £40m for the striker, who could replace Rasmus Hojlund at Old Trafford. Numerous reports have suggested Amorim will get closer to the sack if United keep dropping points. But it is understood that INEOS are so desperate not to get another big decision wrong that they will stick with the Portuguese.

The pursuit of a right wing-back is crucial for Amorim, whose 3-4-2-1 system relies heavily on dynamic wide players to provide width, defensive cover, and attacking threat.

Quenda, a standout talent at Sporting, has been a long-term target, but his high valuation—potentially exceeding £50m due to his release clause and interest from other European giants—may force United to pivot to more cost-effective options like Fernandes.

The 19-year-old Braga star, while less heralded, has shown immense promise in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, with his ability to beat defenders and deliver accurate crosses making him an ideal fit for Amorim’s system.

Fernandes’ potential transfer could also align with INEOS’s strategy of investing in young, high-potential players to build a sustainable squad, especially as United face financial constraints under Financial Fair Play regulations.

This approach contrasts with the club’s past tendency to overspend on established stars, as seen with signings like Casemiro and Antony, and reflects a shift towards a more prudent, long-term vision under INEOS’s stewardship.