Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to battle Manchester United for the signature of Sporting Lisbon youngster Geovany Quenda.
The 17-year-old has scored twice and registered two assists in 18 appearances for Sporting during the 2024-25 campaign, proving to be one of the breakthrough stars in European football this term.
Sporting signed Quenda to a new contract in September, with his release clause rising to €100m (£83.5m), but there is currently a host of speculation surrounding his future, with Man United believed to be determined to sign him.
The 20-time English champions are allegedly keen to agree a deal with the Green and Whites in January, as they fear missing out on his signature due to the number of clubs beginning to express an interest.
Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with the youngster, while according to CaughtOffside, Newcastle are planning to make a move for Quenda in 2025, with the Magpies determined to make a statement in the transfer market.
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Newcastle 'planning move' for in-demand Quenda
Quenda is allegedly considering joining a 'stepping-stone club' when he leaves Sporting, rather than making an immediate move to one of the biggest clubs in world football, which would bring more pressure.
Man United are said to be planning a €40m (£33.4m) opening bid in January, although it is not expected to be close to enough to convince Sporting to let him leave due to his immense potential.
Bayer Leverkusen and Juventus are also believed to be among the clubs looking to secure his signature, but Quenda is said to favour a move to the Premier League at this stage of his career.
The youngster came through the Sporting system as an attacker, but he has been developed into a right-sided wing-back by Ruben Amorim, who officially became Man United's new head coach on November 11.
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Could Newcastle win the race for Quenda?
Newcastle will have a huge job on their hands when it comes to convincing Quenda to turn down the likes of Man United, Arsenal and Chelsea in order to make the move to St James' Park.
However, there is certainly a case to be made that a move to the Magpies at this stage of his career would be better for his long-term development, as he would be able to develop in an atmosphere which is not as intense.
Amorim is said to be determined to bring the teenager with him to Old Trafford, though, and the Portuguese's recent arrival at Man United makes the 20-time English champions the leading candidates for his signature.
Matt Law
