EPL Index
·25 November 2024
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·25 November 2024
As reported by The Daily Mail, Manchester United have added Paris Saint-Germain’s 22-year-old left-back Nuno Mendes to their shortlist for 2025. With Ruben Amorim taking charge at Old Trafford, speculation is rife about potential reunions with his former Sporting Lisbon proteges. Mendes, who rose to prominence under Amorim’s tutelage, seems to fit the mould of the dynamic, forward-thinking players United desperately need.
Despite PSG’s efforts to extend Mendes’ contract, which currently runs until 2026, unresolved negotiations have put European giants on alert. Amorim’s preference for wing-backs in his signature 3-4-3 system makes Mendes an appealing option, especially given the versatility and attacking flair he demonstrated during his formative years in Portugal.
Mendes has already accumulated an impressive CV for someone so young. His 93 appearances for PSG have yielded four goals and 13 assists, adding to his reputation as one of the best in his position. His role as Portugal’s first-choice left-back only solidifies his standing, with four assists in six recent Nations League group games showcasing his ability to deliver in high-stakes scenarios.
United’s interest, however, doesn’t come without challenges. PSG will likely demand a premium fee for the player, and Mendes’ status as a fan favourite in Paris complicates any potential departure. Yet, the opportunity to reunite with Amorim and compete in the Premier League might be enough to sway the defender should PSG fail to secure his long-term future.
United’s left flank has been plagued by injuries this season, leaving Amorim with few reliable options. Tyrell Malacia is yet to play a minute this season and Luke Shaw only returned this weekend against Ipswich, forcing Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui to cover an unfamiliar role. While both Malacia and Shaw are nearing returns, The Daily Mail reports that Amorim could shift Shaw to a left-sided centre-back position, opening up a void for a specialised wing-back like Mendes.
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Additionally, Manchester United are reportedly exploring other options, including Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. However, Real Madrid and Liverpool’s interest in these players complicates matters, leaving Mendes as a potentially attainable target.
The inclusion of Mendes on United’s wishlist underscores Amorim’s desire to bring in players who align with his philosophy. Mendes’ pace, technical ability, and adaptability make him an ideal candidate for the high-intensity football Amorim is likely to implement. Whether the transfer materialises or not, it’s clear that Amorim is keen on reshaping the squad to compete at the highest level.
For Manchester United supporters, the prospect of signing Nuno Mendes is both exciting and practical. They would likely see this as a necessary step towards resolving the persistent issues on the left side of defence. Injuries to key players like Shaw and Malacia have left the team exposed, and while Diogo Dalot has admirably stepped in, he lacks the natural instincts of a left-sided defender.
Fans might also appreciate the thoughtfulness behind targeting Mendes, a player who has thrived under Amorim before. His familiarity with the manager’s system could allow for a smoother transition and a quicker impact at Old Trafford. Mendes’ attacking attributes—his ability to overlap, deliver crosses, and contribute to goals—could add a much-needed spark to United’s often inconsistent flank play.
However, some supporters may question the wisdom of splashing out on another high-profile transfer after witnessing the mixed results of previous big-money signings in recent years. With reported interest in Alphonso Davies and Milos Kerkez, fans could debate whether Mendes represents the best value for money.
Regardless, the transfer rumour is a sign of Amorim’s ambition. United fans would likely welcome a manager willing to think strategically and build a squad capable of competing for major honours, even if it means investing heavily in talent like Mendes.