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Sporting were at least half-expected to sell Nuno Mendes this summer, in a deal which would have been very useful for the Lisbon club’s finances.

However, they’ve hit something of a problem. There’s many clubs interested in the 19-year-old left-back, with Manchester United and Manchester City those named the most often, however, they don’t really need him.

Whilst there’s not a lot of argument against Nuno Mendes being a huge talent, there’s just not the spaces for him at the clubs who are interested and could afford the money Sporting want.

Record again say Manchester City have backed away for this window and whilst Manchester United are named as a ‘clear suitor’ for the youngster, they have Luke Shaw and Alex Telles in the position.

Even if Telles was to leave this summer, and by all accounts he wants to stay, Nuno Mendes would be a reserve of such ultra-luxury that it would seem wrong the money wasn’t spent elsewhere.

Sporting have now revised their demands down to €50m+, and are set for a meeting with the player’s agent. That representative just so happens to be Miguel Pinho, who helped take Bruno Fernandes to Manchester United, and has good connections with the Premier League club.

Should the Red Devils move at any point in the near to medium future, that Pinho connection looks huge for them.

Back to the meeting, Pinho wants to clarify his client’s future and is certainly not demanding a move this summer.

Nuno Mendes is happy and would stay for another season, kicking the issue of a transfer further down the road.