Sporting Lisbon's emerging talent Geovany Quenda is rapidly making a name for himself in European football, attracting considerable interest from Premier League giants, but it seems he may stay in Portugal for at least another season. Currently only 17 years old, Quenda has demonstrated remarkable skill, maturity, and versatility on the pitch, positioning him as one of the continent's most promising young players.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Quenda has already made 17 appearances for Sporting Lisbon, scoring two goals and contributing two assists. These numbers, while modest, do not fully capture the impact he has had on the field, particularly in high-stakes situations. His performances have highlighted his ability to adapt and excel in various roles, which has become a significant asset for the Green and Whites.
A recent display that captured the attention of scouts and fans alike came when Sporting Lisbon faced off against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. Quenda played in a right-sided wing-back role, showing his capacity to take on a more defensive position while still contributing to his team’s offensive plays. This adaptability is particularly impressive for someone of his age, and it has further fueled interest from several top European clubs.
Manchester United, under the incoming management of Ruben Amorim, have been closely monitoring Quenda's progress. Amorim, who has a history of working with young talents and developing them into stars, has been strongly linked with the managerial role at Old Trafford and is set to officially assume the position on Monday. There are reports that he is eager to bring Quenda with him to Manchester, seeing the youngster as a player who could bolster United's future lineup.
Arsenal is another club that has reportedly set its sights on Quenda. Under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has been focusing on building a young, dynamic squad, and Quenda could be a perfect addition to this vision. The Gunners are said to be determined to secure his services in the upcoming summer transfer window, seeing him as a potential key player in their continued resurgence.
However, despite this heavy interest from England, it appears that Quenda may not be making a move just yet. Sources close to Sporting Lisbon suggest that the club is keen on keeping him for at least one more season, recognizing his value and the role he could play in their long-term strategy. At his young age, a few more years of development in Portugal could allow him to refine his skills further before transitioning to the intense environment of the Premier League.
The decision to keep Quenda may also be beneficial for Sporting Lisbon’s ambitions in domestic and European competitions. With his abilities on the wing, Quenda has proven to be a significant asset for the team. His speed, technical skill, and understanding of the game make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In Portugal, he has the chance to gain more consistent playing time in a familiar environment, which could aid his overall growth and readiness for higher levels of competition.
For Quenda, staying in Portugal for an additional season could be a strategic choice. Playing in the Primeira Liga will give him time to build confidence, gain valuable match experience, and develop a greater understanding of various playing styles. Additionally, he will have the opportunity to work with Sporting's coaching staff and learn from the more experienced players around him, further sharpening his tactical and physical attributes. This gradual progression could be critical in preparing him for the demands of the Premier League, where the pace and intensity can be challenging even for established players.
Moreover, Sporting's strategy of retaining young talents rather than immediately selling them to bigger clubs has proven effective in the past. The club has a history of nurturing young players, including stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, who later made significant impacts in the Premier League. Quenda could follow in their footsteps, developing his potential at Sporting before eventually making a high-profile move when he is fully prepared to excel at a higher level.
As interest from Manchester United and Arsenal grows, Sporting may also use this as an opportunity to negotiate more favorable terms for a future transfer. Holding onto Quenda for another season could increase his market value, especially if he continues to deliver impressive performances. Additionally, remaining at Sporting could offer him more opportunities to participate in European competitions, further increasing his experience and exposure to top-tier teams.
Quenda 'not expected to leave Sporting next year'
However, according to GIVEMESPORT, Quenda is highly unlikely to leave Sporting next summer, with the Portuguese also expected to spend the 2025-26 campaign with his current side.
The report claims that Sporting will refuse to entertain any offers for the teenager and will instead point to his release clause of €100m (£83m), which neither Arsenal nor Man United are prepared to meet at this stage.
Quenda and his representatives allegedly believe that his development would be best served at Sporting, with the right-sided player still in the very early stages of his professional career.
The Portugal Under-21s international has represented Sporting on four occasions in the Champions League this season, while he has a record of one goal and one assist in 10 league appearances in 2024-25.
while the allure of the Premier League is undeniable, and the interest from clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal is strong, Quenda’s immediate future seems firmly planted in Portugal. Staying with Sporting Lisbon could provide him with the best environment for growth, allowing him to become a more polished player before making a move to one of the world’s most competitive leagues. Both Sporting and Quenda would benefit from this decision, with the potential for a highly lucrative transfer in the future, should the youngster continue to shine. For now, fans will be watching closely as Quenda’s journey unfolds, hopeful that he continues to develop into one of football’s next big stars.
Amorim hints Man United could raid Sporting next summer
Quenda might not be leaving in 2025, but Viktor Gyokeres, Ousmane Diomande and Pedro Goncalves are among those who could potentially depart Sporting during next summer's transfer window.
Amorim has ruled out Man United moving for any Sporting players in January, but the incoming Man United head coach hinted that the Red Devils could approach the Portuguese giants next summer to discuss potential signings.
"I won't [sign Sporting players] in January, that's what I said. I don't know about the summer," Amorim said during his press conference on Saturday afternoon.
"The first point is to hold on until the summer. Sporting players are very good players, I don't know, we'll see. I know the phenomenon of football especially in England, and I know how things change."
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