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29 March 2024

Man United eye South American 'Ronaldo'

Sir Alex Ferguson wants to maintain his youth transfer policy. (FILE)

Published
By Staff

Sir Alex Ferguson is monitoring Porto star James Rodriguez, the player known as the South American Cristiano Ronaldo, according to reports in Portugal.

The 20-year-old midfielder has impressed since joining Porto from Argentinian club Banfield in 2010 and is considered by many to be one of the hottest prospects in world football.

The former Banfield man was rewarded with an improved deal after scoring a hat-trick in last season’s Portuguese Cup final.

His excellent form has continued this term and the youngster has found the target nine times in 15 domestic league games.

Ferguson apparently sent a scout to the Etihad Stadium to watch Manchester City’s midweek Europa League clash with Porto.

Rodriguez’s performances have now attracted attention outside Portugal, but any club that wishes to sign him would have to bid £38 million to activate the release clause in his contract.

Though the youngster plays primarily in a wide role he is also on occasion used in a more orthodox striking role.

But there is little doubt the Porto talent has impressed Ferguson sufficiently.

The Scot has adopted a youthful transfer policy over the past couple of years, with the likes of Javier Hernandez, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones make an instant impact in the Man United first team set-up.

Rodriguez is a speedy intelligent attacking weapon who has served FC Porto well over the past 18 months.

Whether Ferguson is ready to break the bank to secure a player who has grown in stature to be compared to former United star Ronaldo remains to be seen.