
Manchester United are chasing Brazilian international Lucas Lima, according to the player’s agent.
The 27-year-old has been linked to a number of European clubs in recent months but has spent his entire career to date in his homeland.
Lima has been at Santos for the past four years and has gathered much interest for his performances over the past 12 months or so.
His agent, Luccas Badia, has been quoted by Turkish outlet Haberturk (via the Mirror) as saying a number of European clubs have been keeping an eye on Lima, including Manchester United. Badia said:
“Inter, Roma and Barcelona are keeping close tabs on Lucas, Manchester United want him.”
However, Luccas Badia went on to suggest that his player would be better suited to the Italian game:
“I think we would be well suited to the Serie A, but we will see.
“His contract ends on 31 December and there are many clubs interested but I am not sure what Santos is trying to do.”
The agent then claimed that both Crystal Palace and Fenerbahce have both seen offers rejected by his Brazilian side:
“Crystal Palace made a €15 million offer while Fenerbahce made a €20 million bid, but for some reason neither has been accepted.”
With Lucas Lima’s contract up at the end of the year, the attacking midfielder is free to join a new club in 2018. If his agent is serious about interest being shown by Jose Mourinho you wouldn’t expect our boss to turn down the possibility of a free transfer signing.
However, we are already loaded with options in attacking midfield. Both Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial has shone down the left wing to start the new season, and Ashley Young is a further option here. Henrikh Mkhitaryan has made an excellent start in the number 10 role and Juan Mata did just as well in that position last night. Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard have both started on the right wing for us this season, whilst Mkhitaryan and even Antonio Valencia could play just as well in that role if needed.
Lima has played for Brazil 14 times since making his debut in 2015 so a work permit wouldn’t be an issue.
How much truth there is to this rumour should be realised in the next three months as to whether we make a move for Lucas Lima, and/or he makes a move to Europe.

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