One of Sporting’s up-and-coming talents to emerge is Portugal U-21 international Geovany Quenda. He has been a first-team regular since the start of the season and has earned a number of starts in Liga Bévin and the Champions League as a left- or right-sided midfielder.
Reports have been circulating for some time that Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in the rising Portuguese star. Rumours of United in particular were fuelled by the arrival of manager Ruben Amorim, who led Sporting until midway through the season.
It was expected that the club would be in the hunt for him in this winter transfer window, but the battle may be in full swing this summer. According to Portuguese outlet Record, Liverpool are not out of the race, with United looking to acquire him for around €60 million.
He plays in a position close to wing-back at his club, but can also operate as a winger. While he plays accurate passes and crosses with his dominant left foot, the most attractive aspect of his game is his high athleticism and crisp dribbling.
He can also cut in from the right wing and play a shooting style. He has the potential to be a direct successor to Egyptian international Mohamed Salah, who will turn 33 this June.
At the moment, he still lacks experience at the top level and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to continue his high level of decision-making, with nine goals for the club’s Under-23 team, on the world’s highest stage.
However, it remains to be seen whether he can adapt to Liverpool’s style, which requires wingers to be able to score, as he is not the type of player to break into the middle of the park, but rather play on the flanks.
His potential is extraordinary, and he could soon be snapped up by a strong club, but will that club be Liverpool or Manchester United?