Manchester United are interested in a Brazilian wonderkid playing at the Club World Cup this summer who is set to make a decision on his future after the tournament.
Manchester United will not participate in the inaugural edition of the revamped Club World Cup, a tournament that has sparked controversy due to the increased number of matches for the teams involved.
Chelsea and Manchester City are the two English clubs set to compete, while Inter Miami—owned by David Beckham—will also take part in the competition, which will be hosted in the United States.
The tournament is also a chance for some lesser-known talent to make their mark against some of the best teams in the world, with the hopes of securing a move afterwards.
With United’s new approach focused around securing talented young stars, those at Old Trafford will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on some of the gems playing in these games.
Brazilian wonderkid will consider options after Club World Cup
Prior reports have linked United with a move for Flamengo right-back Wesley, a 21-year-old Brazilian right-back who has emerged into the first team over the last couple of years.
Despite his age, Wesley has already played 131 times for the Brazilian outfit and is considering a move away this summer. He will make his decision after appearing at the Club World Cup.
United scouts have watched the £25 million-rated defender but decided against a January move – partly due to funds being focused on Patrick Dorgu – but they are eyeing a summer swoop for the player when he returns from the United States.
He is set to play in group stage games against Tunisian side ES Tunis, Club León from Mexico and Chelsea later this month.
United having another wingback option is useful
If United do follow up with their interest in Wesley this summer, he would likely become a wingback option behind Amad on the right.
Ruben Amorim is trying to find a balance on the flanks and wants at least one offensive-minded player in one of the positions, with the Ivorian likely to be that man most of the time.
However, it would be useful to have another option on that right side who is naturally more defensive, but has better attacking qualities than Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui.
Wesley has only scored three goals and registered five assists for Flamengo since coming through the ranks, but looks to have confidence and quality going forward, which could be refined at Old Trafford.
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