When Ruben Amorim first became Manchester United’s head coach, his first port of call was strengthening at wingback, and Roger Fernandes had emerged as one of the options.
But his priority was trying to sign Geovany Quenda from Sporting CP. In the end, Chelsea surprisingly beat the Red Devils to the punch.
As a result, links with the SC Braga ace became more and more frequent, with the 19-year-old netting five times while also accumulating seven assists last season.
Diogo Dalot played in that position in the first six months of Amorim’s reign, but struggled offensively. The head coach eventually turned to Amad, who is reported to be permanently utilised in that position.
Wingback addition
Givemesport have relayed that has not stopped INEOS from keeping tabs on the Portugal U21 international, with the club sending scouts to monitor his progress during the ongoing U21 Euros.
He can play as a right wingback, as an out-and-out winger and can even do a job on the left, and this versatility appeals to Amorim.
“We understand that United like Fernandes a lot and believe that he would be a good fit into the Ruben Amorim system, which means United have been keeping tabs on him over in Slovakia.
“As Fernandes plays for Portugal U21 in the European Championship, United are following him closely; however, there are doubts around whether a wing-back is on the cards this summer.
Roger Fernandes scouting mission
“Things have changed at United with their targets indicating Amad will be played as a right wing-back from this point forward, and in that case, I don’t think Fernandes can be seen as a priority.
“However, United are doing options and still like him, while the fact that he can play in a number of positions also appeals.”
But as things stand, the Old Trafford side do not have plans to strengthen in the wingback position with the attack currently the top priority.
However, if Roger Fernandes continues to impress for both club and country, United may be forced to act sooner rather than later.
Feature image Octavio Passos via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
