Benfica star Goncalo Ramos has reportedly been closely tracked and scouted by Manchester United’s recruitment team on a number of occasions as new manager Erik ten Hag looks to strengthen the attacking unit in the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure.
With 14 goals and six assists from just 21 appearances across all competitions for Benfica this season, the 21-year-old has been on fire. He has also shone in the Champions League, which has helped the Eagles remain unbeaten so far in the 2022–23 season.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils have taken notice of his development, but they may have to pay a high price to sign him this January.
The Benfica player had excellent poaching abilities throughout his career, racing off the ball, pressing relentlessly, and generally appearing to be a contemporary striker.
While it’s unfortunate that he was unable to follow up his electrifying display with another match-winning performance in the quarterfinals against Morocco as the Portuguese were eliminated, he has nonetheless done enough to demonstrate his talent and draw attention. United will likely look to add a striker in January after Ronaldo’s departure left the team without many choices. Ramos is one of the striker possibilities the Mancunian giants are considering, even if PSV Eindhoven forward Cody Gakpo remains the club’s top target.
The big problem is that Benfica are not interested in selling their striker midway through the season because the team is currently atop the Primeira Liga standings and has advanced to the last-16 stage of the Champions League. United is not the only team pursuing the highly-rated star in January.
According to recent sources, the player’s asking price has increased as a result of his outstanding performances this season for club and country. In an effort to deter suitors, Benfica will point them to his €120 million buy-out clause, and negotiations for a new, improved long-term contract are already under way.
Ramos has a deal with Benfica that runs through June 2026, so it’s possible that United will have to wait until next summer to pursue the young attacker.
