Revealed: How Man Utd missed out on Geovany Quenda as Ruben Amorim's former star agrees to join Chelsea despite Red Devils' extensive talks with Sporting CP

According to The Athletic,the Portuguese winger had been on United's radar for months, with initial discussions suggesting he was on track for a summer move to Old Trafford. However, complications arose regarding finances and future plans, leading to the Red Devils ultimately stepping back from the deal. Quenda, who earned a first-team promotion under Ruben Amorim, thrived in Sporting’s 3-4-2-1 system, which further heightened interest from United’s recruitment team.

One of the primary hurdles in United’s pursuit of Quenda was the €60 million (£51m/$66m) valuation Sporting placed on the youngster. With INEOS now overseeing football operations at the club, there has been a clear focus on recruiting younger talent, but spending such a substantial sum on a 17-year-old with limited experience proved a significant sticking point.

The club’s decision was also influenced by the signing of Patrick Dorgu, a promising 20-year-old left-footed wing-back who was acquired for roughly half of Quenda’s price. Additionally, Sporting had insisted on loaning Quenda back for another season, as they anticipate selling other key players and wanted to rely on him in 2024-25. United, however, were not in a position to spend heavily on a player they wouldn’t use immediately, making the deal even more complicated.

As United hesitated, Chelsea acted decisively to snap up the Portuguese talent. The London club conducted what has been described as a “secret blitz” at Sporting, ensuring that the teenager was secured before the transfer window officially opens. Quenda has already undergone a medical, and an official announcement is expected soon.

With a restricted budget, they must be selective in their summer acquisitions, ensuring that any signings align with both immediate needs and long-term goals. They have been linked with another Sporting star, Viktor Gyokeres and it remains to be seen if the Red Devils can lure him to Old Trafford in the summer.