Manchester United linked with Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes

Benfica Midfielder Gedson Fernandes Linked to United

With Erling Haaland shocking Manchester United and multiple other teams when he signed with Borussia Dortmund over the weekend, United was forced to look at other options in the January transfer window.

One player being linked with a potential January move to Old Trafford is out of favor Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes.

MEN is reporting that Fernandes’ agent has flown to the UK to negotiate with several teams, including United. The Portuguese under-21 international has risen through the Benfica ranks but hasn’t been featured in the last seven matches, increasing speculation that his time with the club is close to an end.

One big obstacle that United must overcome if they want to sign Fernandes is a huge £102 million release clause, but his agent is shopping around a loan deal with an option to buy for £34 million.

Roma Closing on Deal to Keep Smalling

Updating an earlier report, AS Roma have stepped up their interest in retaining Chris Smalling and are reportedly in advanced talks and have increased the offer to keep the center back in Roma.

United are reportedly asking £17m for Smalling, with Roma already playing £2.5m for the one-year loan. Roma is looking to secure Smalling for the next five years.

Roma is said to have increased their bid to £12.8m plus £2.5m in bonuses for the defender who has 323 appearances for United but left on loan for the 2018-19 season.