Manchester United May Sell Attacking Midfielder Amid Solskjaer’s Squad Overhaul, Report Says

Manchester United’s Andreas Pereira is now linked to a move away from Old Trafford after the attacking midfielder struggled to find his spot in the squad following the arrival of Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon.

The Red Devils have been aggressive in scouting additional talents for this coming transfer window. The names who have been linked to United so far include Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho and Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly. However, aside from signing players, the club is also looking to cash in on some of its outcasts this summer, according to new reports.

One of the United players linked to a possible departure is attacking midfielder Pereira, The Times U.K. reported. This past season, the club wasn’t able to maximize the services of the 24-year-old Brazilian, who struggled for playing time.

Pereira has only started two league games since February, having been pushed down the midfield pecking order after Fernandes' arrival in January. The Portuguese player, whose move to Old Trafford was worth up to £67.7 million ($88 million), has scored 11 goals and registered seven assists since joining United.

Pereira ended the 2019/20 season having scored just one goal, along with three assists.

At this point, there are no Premier League clubs mentioned as potential suitors of Pereira. However, Portuguese top-flight Primeira Liga’s Benfica is interested in signing him on loan, The Times U.K. said. Some German and Spanish clubs are also monitoring his situation with United.

The 24-year-old is currently valued at £14.4 million ($18 million) by Transfermarkt and has a contract with United set to expire in 2023, with the option to extend for an additional year.

However, Pereira earlier expressed a desire to remain at United.

“Even when I came to United at such a young age, going to United it’s, of course, a massive club, but I know that they are willing to give youth a chance,” he said in April via the club's official website. “That is what happened with me. Ole knows we will always be there for him. The young players give our faith and do everything to protect him, as he gives all his trust to us.”

“I’m very honored and that’s why, as well, I want to stay at United,” he continued. “I want to fight for him, win games and win trophies.”

Pereira officially joined Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side in July last year. At the time, the Brazilian was optimistic about his future with the club.

“I have spent so long in Manchester that I now regard the city and the club as my home and I’m extremely happy to continue my career here,” he said in a statement. “The manager has shown great faith in me and I can’t wait to get this campaign started under him.”

Meanwhile, United could be on its way to completing its first big signing of the transfer window. The club has agreed to a €12 million ($14.2 million) fee for Partizan standout Filip Stevanovic.

But despite being able to reach an agreement for Stevanovic, United is still hoping to land its top prospect, Sancho, previous reports said.