As Manchester United officials continue to wheel and deal throughout a crucial summer window, Roger Fernandes remains a name held in the highest regard.
The Portuguese youngster is considered one of the hottest prospects for A Selecao das Quinas and has earned widespread interest since emerging on the senior stage in 2023.
Braga may have endured a frustrating campaign with Daniel Sousa departing in August, but eventually finished 4th with Roger regularly contributing in 48 impressive appearances.
His ability is well-documented, and his versatility is a notable asset for Braguistas and the Portugal U21 side. For context, the 19-year-old has lined out in defence, midfield and attack on the left and right flanks throughout his young career.
United are long-time admirers, and as we exclusively reported in March, have been monitoring his progress ahead of a potential summer approach. Furthermore, Ruben Amorim has first-hand experience in the Primeira Liga.
With his backroom team assessing the youngster’s productivity throughout the European Under-21 Championships, the Reds are now contending with continental alternatives such as domestic powerhouses Benfica and Porto for his signature.
But what can the Old Trafford faithful expect from another highly-touted prospect, and how could he impact Amorim’s intricate system in the North West?
Why are Manchester United tracking Roger Fernandes?
Despite his age and inexperience at the highest level, Fernandes presents a flamboyant modern-day profile with a style and professional approach similar to Geovany Quenda.
Blessed with pace, athleticism, stamina and attacking trickery, like his compatriot, it would appear he can thrive in the melting pot of the English game.
As stated above, versatility is a notable attribute and similar to Patrick Dorgu, Roger can switch wings at ease and affect the game with ambipedal ability and grace in possession.
When assessing his metrics and what he can offer Amorim’s system, there is undeniable tenacity to accommodate the former Sporting supremo.
| Roger Fernandes vs the ‘big five’ last 365 days | Per 90 minutes | Percentile |
| Carries into the final third | 4.32 | 99 |
| Ball recoveries | 6.05 | 98 |
| Progressive carries | 4.32 | 98 |
| Successful take-ons | 1.90 | 98 |
| Progressive passes received | 9.50 | 97 |
| Crosses | 6.74 | 96 |
| Blocks | 1.55 | 88 |
| Interceptions | 1.38 | 86 |
| Tackles and interceptions | 3.97 | 85 |
| Tackles | 2.59 | 83 |
Figures available at fbref.com
Speaking with sources close to Carrington in March, a revised transfer philosophy was a fundamental standout as an Ineos-led hierarchy strives to develop the latest wave of European starlets in Manchester.
This sleeping giant is attempting to reclaim an identity inspired by entrusting youth, and this is evident with the host of academy talents that have arrived under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
“He [Roger] can play deep, he can play forward, he can play left and right and has an engine for days,” the Theatre of Red was advised.
“It was easy to link for Quenda – and rightfully so – he’s another talent. But money is king here. Roger is ticking the vast majority of boxes, and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he ended up in Manchester.”
As highlighted on the latest installation of the Theatre of Red podcast with Shaun Connolly, attacking recruits are the priority during the summer window, with Bryan Mbeumo edging closer to joining Matheus Cunha in M16.
Further activity will depend on departures, with the futures of several high-earning stars remaining unclear.
While a move for Roger Fernandes is not greenlit, Portuguese interest has elevated his standing on a summer wishlist, with the club weighing up their options.
How would you feel about the youngster making the move to Manchester United? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels.
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