Manchester United could be ready to hijack Aston Villa’s move for Real Betis star Luiz Henrique.
According to the Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the Red Devils, along with Arsenal and Aston Villa, are very attentive to the Brazilian winger.
The left-footed attacker joined Betis from Fluminense only in the summer, but has assimilated into European football like a fish in water.
He has put in spectacular displays against FC Barcelona and Osasuna, impressing in high-pressure knockout matches in the Super Cup and Copa del Rey respectively.
Henrique currently has a release clause of around €100m, however Betis are believed to be willing to part with the player for less than that sum in the summer, having only paid €8m until reaching the 13 million euros for his services.
There’s more than a little déjà vu here for United fans, as midfield target Enzo Fernández was signed by Benfica for a similar price and, after an impossibly short trade, his value has skyrocketed.
It is unknown if the Red Devils followed Henrique during his time in South America, although they were most likely looking to acquire a certain left-back Brazilian right-back.
Antony signed for the club late in the window for around €100 million, his performances receiving mixed responses during his brief time at Old Trafford.
While he is United’s joint second-highest goalscorer this season, critics have argued that his lack of directness has hampered his team’s ability to create high-quality chances.
Whether the former Ajax star is good or not, Henrique would make a certain amount of sense for Erik ten Hag.
The coach clearly likes this type of player, preferring a lefty on the right side of his attack. Like Antony, Henrique is a silky dribbler and relentless pressurer, which could allow the two to rotate effectively.
However, United is highly unlikely to do business anywhere near Luiz Henrique’s release clause, having spent huge fees on right wingers two summers in a row.
If that price drops, and quite a bit, this could be one to watch over the summer.
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