Valencia’s young midfielder Andre Gomes has been mooted as one of Jose Mourinho’s main transfer targets as he takes over at Manchester United this summer. The 22-year-old has impressed since joining from Benfica in 2014 and could be just what 'Mou' needs to revamp his midfield.
Gomes initially joined Valencia on loan and then later signed a permanent contract, which would take him through until 2020. The Portuguese international scored five goals in 34 games for his club last season.
According to Transfermarkt.com, the 22-year-old is currently valued at around £15m but Manchester Utd would probably have to pay more than that to pull him away from Valencia where he is considered a vital player.
HIs promising performance as Portugal drew 1-1 with Iceland at EURO 2016 is sure to have alerted even more teams, and here are FIVE reasons why Mourinho should make a move for his fellow countryman...
CREATIVITY
Gomes has the flair and ability to create something from nothing, whether that be by carrying the ball from deep or playing neat, threaded passes to the front-men.
As well as his five goals last season, Gomes also managed to contribute six assists for his domestic team, a side of his game that at such a young age shows great promise.
REPLACEMENTS NEEDED
Although Man United do still have good options in midfield, players such as Michael Carrick and Bastian Schweinsteiger showed some signs of their age last season. The addition of Gomes would be one that could add a real sense of competition to the heart of the team.
Although Gomes is more attacking than both the elder statesmen mentioned, defending is something that Mourinho will demand Gomes adds to his game as it is something he requires of all his players. Although he is not the most defensive-minded of players he still has the knack to drop deeper and carry the ball a long way forward, a real box to box midfielder.
HIS AGE
Gomes has the ability of a player well beyond his age. At just 22, he is already a well-rounded player and with the guidance of Mourinho his quality could be taken to the next level.
His vision and technique are excellent for such a young player and given enough time to further improve this, Gomes could become a mainstay in the Manchester United squad for years to come.
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PHYSICALITY
Gomes is a towering presence at 6ft. 2" in the Valencia midfield, Gomes has built his strength over the last few seasons.
Many players that move to the Premier League fail to adjust to the physicality of the division, but the fact that Gomes appears to be well in control of and happy to utilise his physical prowess could mean that he would not find the adjustment too difficult.
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HIS AGENT
Gomes is represented by Jorge Mendes, the biggest football agent in the world... who also happens to be the agent of Mourinho himself.
As mentioned before, Gomes is valued at around £15m, but the fee paid could be much higher than that. Hypothetically, once a fee is agreed, contract negotiations should not be too difficult for either party, which would make the transfer far more attractive to Jose and co.
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