By Ryan Kane.
According to latest reports Portugal’s attacking full-back Fabio Coentrão is set to sign for either Manchester United or Manchester City this summer.
The 22-year old had an impressive World Cup campaign with many critics praising him as Portugal’s player of the tournament. Rumours are now arising that the Benfica defender is set to make the move to Manchester United, who will have to fend off close competition from billionaire neighbours Manchester City for his signing.
Coentrão, who has played eight times for the Portuguese senior team since being called up by manager Carlos Queiroz, is valued in the region of £5.6 million. It is rumoured that Benfica will demand a significantly higher fee for the services of Coentrão following his impressive performances for his country in South Africa.
The left-back has been praised as a player with good dribbling and crossing skills as well as having a dynamic style of play. Coentrão seemed, at times, to outshine teammate Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal’s four World Cup matches. His quick burst of pace down the left flank gave Portugal width and greatly aided their attacking style of play.
Manchester City are said to be United’s closest competition in the ongoing race for Coentrão’s signature. The Eastland’s club, who having already signed Spanish midfielder David Silva, will add the Portuguese full-back to their transfer hit list along with Barcelona’s Yaya Toure. The Ivory Coast midfielder is set to join brother Kolo at City in the coming weeks.
The big decision now for Coentrão is the choice between City’s oodles of cash OR United’s Champions League football.
What would you choose?
