João Simões: Man United have Portugal’s next big star in their sights | OneFootball

Manchester United are always looking to add young talent to their academy and first team squad.

Ineos revolution

Ever since Jim Ratcliffe took over football operations of the club, there has been a concerted effort to bring in more exciting youth.

Chido Obi and Sekou Kone were brought in during the summer of 2024 alongside Leny Yoro from Lille.

Ayden Heaven was signed in January alongside Patrick Dorgu and a pre-agreement for Diego Leon from Paraguay was reached, who arrived this summer.

The Red Devils seem to be showing no sign of stopping the collection of young talent as they have reportedly agreed a deal for Fortaleza’s 17 year old Cristian Orozco.

Next talent in sights

According to Italian paper Corrierre dello Sport, United are set to go head-to-head with Premier League rivals for one of the next big Portuguese talents.

18-year-old João Simões of Sporting Club is said to be the next young star that United want to see arrive at Carrington.

The paper adds that, “a transfer race is developing behind the scenes and could come to a head as early as January, although Sporting hopes to keep him in Lisbon until June.”

He captained Portugal Under-17s in their Euro 2024 run and reportedly his club will not negotiate a fee and only point to his €80 million release clause.

Who is he?

The midfielder has only played three games this season in the league but did secure his first start against Tondela last weekend.

Simões is said to combine “intelligence, technique, and naturalness” in his game.

Despite such a young age, “his style of football is methodical and geometric. A light pace and smooth control: João never rushes, but always plays at the right pace. Every touch is thoughtful, every pass carries weight. He dictates the tempo and solutions, without ever forcing them.”

The youngster reportedly also bases his game on the likes of Sergio Busquets, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

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