Manchester United handed boost in race for Benfica forward Goncalo Ramos?

Manchester United have allegedly received a boost in the race to sign Benfica forward Goncalo Ramos.

The Red Devils were heavily linked with numerous strikers during the summer transfer window, only to instead spend big on Ajax winger Antony.

That approach was a consequence of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial now being regarded as players for down the middle of the attack and Cristiano Ronaldo eventually remaining at Old Trafford, despite much speculation regarding his future.

However, that set of circumstances has not changed Erik ten Hag's desire to bring in a fresh face for that area of the pitch in one of the next two transfer windows.

Earlier this month, a report indicated that Ten Hag was weighing up whether to request that United push ahead with a proposal for Ramos.

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The Portugal Under-21 international has already contributed eight goals and six assists this campaign, taking his opportunity to replace Darwin Nunez who has left for Liverpool.

Nevertheless, his performances have naturally led to widespread interest in his signature, including from Bayern Munich who may soon be back in the market for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

However, according to Kicker, Bayern are 'no longer interested' in trying to acquire the services of the 21-year-old.

As it stands, that has seemingly provided United with a clearer run to win the race for Ramos at some point during 2023.

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While Paris Saint-Germain were linked with Ramos in the past, they spent heavily in the summer and have already bought in Hugo Ekitike as backup to Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar.

Before United became interested in Ramos, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Southampton and Nottingham Forest were all allegedly keen to sign the versatile attacker.

Realistically, however, the trio are only regarded as outsiders as long as United and Ten Hag are willing to meet Benfica's valuation.

Ramos, who has a contract at Estadio da Luz until 2026, is likely to cost in excess of the previously-quoted £25m if he continues his current form in his homeland and the Champions League.