Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Porto wonderkid and reported Manchester United target Rodrigo Mora is on the brink of putting pen to paper on a new deal that will include a €70m release clause.
Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe assumed operational control of United in February last year, the club’s transfer strategy has shifted from signing established players already at the peak of their powers to recruiting young players who are hungry and can be nurtured to potentially become world-class.
In the last year, United have signed the likes of Sekou Kone (19), Chido Obi (17), Ayden Heaven (18) and Patrick Dorgu (20).
It appears United are bracing for another busy transfer window and they are likely to take a look at some of the rising young talents making headlines across the football world.
A youngster who is believed to be on United’s radar is Porto’s Rodrigo Mora. Like United, Porto have endured a tumultuous season in what is André Villas-Boas’ first year as president of the Estádio do Dragão outfit.
Porto currently occupy third place in Liga Portugal, trailing Sporting CP and Benfica, who are level on points, by a 13-point margin. However, Mora has proven to be a bright spark for the side.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has made 21 top-flight appearances this term, contributing an impressive eight goals and four assists. At 17, Mora became the youngest debutant in the history of Portugal’s professional football.
A report covered by The Peoples Person revealed that United sent scouts to monitor the player, and interestingly, Amorim was reportedly interested in signing him during his time as Sporting manager.
But, United are not the only party keeping tabs on Mora. He has also been linked to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.
It’s no surprise Mora is drawing attention. Beyond his impressive stats, he shows an exceptional ability to read the game, a quality rarely seen in players his age.
The Custóias-born talent combines physical strength with excellent footwork and a low centre of gravity, making him highly effective in tight spaces and difficult for defenders to pin down. He is bold and fearless in most of his actions, which makes him an even more attractive proposition.
Romano has confirmed that Mora is set to sign a new deal to extend his stay at Porto.
The Italian journalist wrote on X, “Rodrigo Mora turns 18 today and his new deal at FC Porto is now set to be announced very soon.”
“It will include €70m release clause for the Portuguese top talent.”
🚨🐉 Rodrigo Mora turns 18 today and his new deal at FC Porto is now set to be announced very soon.
It will include €70m release clause for the Portuguese top talent. pic.twitter.com/QnFrmC8Axv
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 5, 2025
Whether United are prepared to splash €70m on Mora remains uncertain. More likely, the Red Devils will keep a close eye on his progress and if he maintains his current form, a move could well be in the pipeline.
Featured image Octavio Passos via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
