Manchester United are preparing a summer transfer move for Lyon winger Afonso Moreira, a player who was previously overlooked by former manager Ruben Amorim at Sporting Lisbon. The 21-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1, scoring eight goals and providing 10 assists in 35 appearances across all competitions, helping Lyon reach the Europa League knockout stages and sit third in the league.
Moreira's Rise After Amorim's Snub
Moreira came through the academy at Sporting Lisbon and made his senior debut in August 2023 under Amorim. However, he was given just 61 minutes of first-team football before being loaned out to Gil Vicente, where he made only five appearances. After Amorim's move to Manchester United, Moreira was deemed surplus to requirements and left Sporting for Lyon for a fee of just €2 million (£1.7 million) last summer.
In an interview with Portuguese outlet A Bola, Moreira reflected on his departure from Sporting, describing it as an "unfulfilled dream." He said: "I wouldn't say frustrated, perhaps it was just another unfulfilled dream. At the time, I was decided on Lyon, but of course it was very difficult to leave the club where I grew up. I was a kid who felt very connected to the club. That dream remains unwritten, but now it's time to look ahead."
United's Summer Plans
Manchester United, who sacked Amorim in January and have since qualified for the Champions League under Michael Carrick, are now targeting Moreira as they look to strengthen their left-wing options. According to A Bola, United have identified Moreira as a key target but face competition from clubs in Serie A and the Bundesliga.
Lyon have Moreira under contract until 2029, while Sporting hold a 20% sell-on clause. United have also been linked with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye as they plan a busy summer transfer window ahead of their return to Europe's elite competition.
Moreira's value has skyrocketed this season, and United are weighing up a bid to bring him back to the Premier League. The winger, who can play on both flanks, has thrived since leaving Sporting, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by the Red Devils' recruitment team.
