Manchester United are reportedly interested in a January move for Santos forward Lucas Lima and are keeping a close eye on the player
According to a report by Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are targeting a January move for Santos midfielder Lucas Lima. The 27-year-old Brazilian’s contract will end this December and it is believed that Jose Mourinho could consider acquiring the player as a free agent.
If they do make a move, United will have to fight similar intentions from clubs like Barcelona and Inter Milan. However, Lucas’ departure would come as a major blow to Santos since the club will be hesitant to let a midfielder like Lima leave the club. In fact, they are understood to be trying to get him to extend his contract.
Lucas has been one of the best attacking midfielders in Brazil for a while now. Signed from Internacional in 2012, he gradually went on to establish himself as one of the pillars for Santos by controlling matches from the midfield area and providing assists for the forwards.
The player is extremely energetic and dynamic. He does not shy away from getting into dangerous positions and can dribble his way out of any complex situation. The Brazilian is lethal when he is in form and is probably one of the best at providing assists. He is a key player at Santos but it remains to be seen if he can be as instrumental at United.
The Red Devils are currently in red-hot form. They have a strong squad and are winning their matches in style – but that also brings up the fact that United moved to significantly strengthen their attacking and midfield options last summer by adding Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic, and it is paying off.
Having said that, the Portuguese boss could be in the market to add a fourth player to the squad. A player like Lima could prove to be a fantastic option for Mourinho to deploy in the wide areas. Unlike at Santos though, the midfielder may not receive as much of an important role at Old Trafford since they do not lack for depth right now.
Regardless, there is still the issue of his age. Lima is not really young and this is a player United cannot develop like they might a teenager. He may adapt to new demands, but on a fundamental level, he’s not really a work in progress, so it can either work out for the club or not.
It will certainly be a bit of a gamble for both United and Lima but if at all Mourinho is able to sign him on a free transfer, the deal could prove to be a quality addition.
