FC Bayern Munich have confirmed the signing of 18-year-old midfielder, Renato Sanches. The young midfielder was scouted by multiple European clubs and especially in detail by English giants, Manchester United, but has put pen to paper on a 5-year contract with the Bavarians.
Sanches is a tough-tackling box-to-box midfielder capable of playing equally well in defence and in attack and was one of the reasons why SL Benfica rose so well in the UEFA Champions League this season. Domestically, his presence and control of the game has kept his team at the top of the table two points clear of second-placed Sporting with one game to go.
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The Portuguese has reportedly cost the Bavarians €35 million – which is well worth lesser than what his release clause was stated in the media continuously. Bayern Munich signing the midfielder opens up plenty of talk about the state of their current midfield especially that of Spanish international Thiago Alcantara - who has touted to follow Pep Guardiola out of Bayern Munich and straight to Manchester City.
Speaking to the press after Sanches' signing, CEO of FC Bayern München Karl- Heinz Rummenigge said, “FC Bayern has been watching Renato Sanches for a long period.”
“We’re pleased we’ve been able to sign him despite big-name international competition. Renato is dynamic, a good tackler and a technically skilled midfielder who’ll add even more strength to our team.”
Renato was on the radar of Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain while Bayern Munich were always an 'interested party' but his sale, and especially this early in transfer cycle, has brought a lot to front in how the others are going for their targets.
Ed Woodward and Manchester United were reportedly very interested in signing the player but have now, much like many other signings, lost out to a direct European rival. With the club failing to still secure a UEFA Champions League spot, Sanches could've hurt his value waiting a little longer.
With Carlo Ancelotti also set to take over at the Allianz Arena at the beginning of next season, it's no surprise Sanches chose him over van Gaal given the Dutchman only has one year left on his contract and is reportedly unsure of renewing with the club.
