Irankunda could 'force' Sporting into January signing, target set | OneFootball

Sporting have once again made the signing of a left winger one of their priorities for the near future. The club’s board are looking for a young player with room to develop and are even open to bringing the investment forward to the January transfer window if they feel Rui Borges needs another attacking option.

According to Record, the initial plan is to secure that reinforcement by next summer at the latest. Even so, the schedule and certain squad-specific factors could lead Sporting’s decision-makers to act sooner.

One of those factors is Nestory Irankunda. The Australia international is expected to play in the AFC Asian Cup at the start of 2027 and could be unavailable to Sporting for almost a month during a demanding stage of the season.

During that period, the Lions will face major commitments, including clashes with Barcelona and Manchester City in the Champions League, as well as four league matches. Irankunda’s extended absence could therefore leave Rui Borges with fewer alternatives out wide.

Jesse Derry also weighs into the equation. The young Englishman has yet to establish himself in the first team and has made only three appearances off the bench. The rise of Flávio Gonçalves has reduced his space, and his loan ends in the summer, when he is expected to return to England.

Going the other way, Flávio Gonçalves continues to enjoy the full confidence of the Sporting hierarchy. The winger, who came through the academy in Alcochete, is preparing to renew his contract until 2030, with a €100 million release clause, after establishing himself as one of Rui Borges’ main options.

The versatility of the 'number 58' also counts in his favour, as he can play on the left or move into central areas as an alternative to Rodrigo Zalazar. Luís Guilherme is another option for the flank, although the Brazilian feels more comfortable on the right.

It is in this context that Sporting are once again looking to the market. After tracking Yeremay over several windows without being able to get close to the figures demanded by Deportivo, the Lions are now looking for a different profile: a young player with the potential to grow without needing to take on a leading role immediately.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.