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Manchester United are planning a swoop for Lyon star Afonso Moreira, whom Ruben Amorim developed at Sporting. Moreira, 21, is experiencing an outstanding maiden campaign in France, having left Sporting for merely €2million (£1.7m) last summer.

The winger, who is capable of operating on either flank, has accumulated eight goals and 10 assists in 35 outings across all competitions this term, assisting Lyon in reaching the Europa League knockout stages and securing third place in Ligue 1. Moreira's valuation has soared throughout this season and United are now considering making an offer.

According to Portuguese publication A Bola, the Red Devils have earmarked Moreira in their pursuit of a new left-winger during the summer transfer window. However, United will have competition from sides in Serie A and the Bundesliga.

He remains tied down to Lyon until the summer of 2029, while Sporting hold a 20 per cent sell-on clause. After progressing through their youth system, Moreira made his first-team bow for the Portuguese club in August 2023.

Nevertheless, he departed Sporting with an 'unfulfilled dream'. That's because Amorim afforded Moreira only 61 minutes of senior football before he was sent on loan to Gil Vicente and featured in just five matches.

Even following Amorim's ill-fated move to United, Moreira found himself surplus to requirements. Last month, Moreira sat down for an interview with A Bola and was asked whether his absence from first-team football had left him 'frustrated'.

"I wouldn't say frustrated, perhaps it was just another unfulfilled dream," the 21-year-old replied.

"At the time, I was decided on Lyon, but of course it was very difficult to leave the club where I grew up. I was a kid who felt very connected to the club.

"That dream remains unwritten, but now it's time to look ahead. If God willed it so, there must be a reason. I always did my job with the intention of establishing myself in the first team.

"It didn't happen, but I'm grateful to all the coaches who gave me the opportunity to wear the Sporting jersey. I have nothing to complain about."

United, who dismissed Amorim in January, have also been linked with Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers and Everton talisman Iliman Ndiaye.

The left-wing position is amongst several areas where the Red Devils are looking to bring in reinforcements, as they prepare to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League next season.

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