United made to pay for slow movements in Sanches transfer
Bayern Munich have completed the signing of Renato Sanches from Benfica, in a deal worth up to £63 million.
The 18-year-old is one of Portugal’s hottest young prospects and has joined Bayern in a deal that will keep him at the club until 2021.
Sanches joins the Bundesliga champions for an initial fee of £28 million, but goals scored and success the Portugal international has with the Bavarians will see that fee rise up as far as £63 million.
It is a big blow for Manchester United, who were one of the favourites to sign the box-to-box midfielder, who has made 34 appearances for Benfica this season, scoring twice. The Red Devils, plus Real Madrid and Barcelona were in the market for the Portuguese youngster.
And Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has admitted he is glad to have acquired the player, after interest from across Europe.
“Renato Sanches has been observed by Bayern Munich for a long period.” said Rummenigge.
“We are delighted to have signed him despite renowned international competition. Renato is a dynamic, two combative and technically gifted midfielder who will strengthen our team further.”
But it is seems this could be a double blow for United, suggesting that Jose Mourinho’s proposed take over at Old Trafford has fallen through.
Sanches and the former Chelsea boss are clients of super-agent Jorge Mendes, and it had been recently suggested Sanches would head to Old Trafford if his fellow compatriot took over in the United dugout.
United had hoped Sanches would become the next Ronaldo-type signing – acquiring a promising young Portuguese player and developing him to become a world-class player – however, instead, he becomes Carlo Ancelotti’s first signing at the Allianz Arena, when the Italian takes over from Pep Guardiola in the summer.
Bayern also confirmed that Mats Hummels will return to the club from rivals Borussia Dortmund, where the defender started his career.
