Manchester United has reportedly initiated contact with the Brazilian football club Palmeiras regarding the potential acquisition of promising young talent Thalys. According to a report covered by The Peoples Person last month, United is closely monitoring Thalys, who is widely regarded as a rising star in South American football.
Thalys has garnered comparisons to “the new Endrick,” with Palmeiras reportedly seeking a transfer fee in the vicinity of €42.5 million, akin to the sum they received from Real Madrid for Endrick. However, there have been indications that United could secure the 19-year-old’s services at a slightly reduced price, provided they are willing to include a sell-on clause allowing Palmeiras to benefit from any future resale of the player born in 2005.
In addition to Manchester United, other prominent clubs such as Barcelona and Juventus have also expressed interest in Thalys. An update provided by news outlet Trivela suggests that United has taken significant strides in their pursuit of the teenager, potentially gaining an advantage over other European competitors vying for his signature.
Trivela reported, “Manchester United is exploring the possibility of signing Thalys, an attacking midfielder aged 19, who is currently part of Palmeiras’ under-20 squad. Trivela has learned from club sources, in conjunction with Premier League Brasil, that the English club has initiated contact to ascertain the valuation in the event of a potential negotiation.” The report further notes, “United’s approach is not the first inquiry from a European club. In February, an Italian club also expressed interest in signing him.”
Palmeiras, however, appears reluctant to part ways with Thalys at the moment, as they believe he will continue to have a significant role within the club.
Thalys showcased his scoring prowess by netting 14 goals for the U20s last season, and in the current term, he has already scored three goals in five games in the Copa São Paulo, averaging a goal every 130 minutes of play. Similar to Endrick, Thalys possesses versatility and can operate in various positions across the field.
Initially deployed as a midfielder, Thalys’ proficiency in front of goal and attacking instincts have seen him transition to a more advanced role, predominantly as a striker, although he can also operate as a supporting striker or on the flanks. Standing at 1.84 meters tall, he offers a greater aerial threat compared to Endrick, which could prove valuable in attacking set-pieces or finishing crosses.
There have been suggestions that INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are seeking a young striker to complement Rasmus Hojlund and provide healthy competition for the Danish player, a role which Thalys appears to fit.