Man Utd 'to switch transfer approach' with target's £40m clause to be triggered

As Manchester United's efforts to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona are seemingly getting them nowhere, it looks as if the Red Devils have shifted their attention elsewhere.

Cautious to not put all of their eggs in the De Jong basket, Erik ten Hag is rumoured to be interested in FC Porto star Vítor Machado Ferreira - more commonly known as Vitinha. The Portuguese midfielder worked his way through the ranks at Porto and even boasts Premier League experience.

At the beginning of the 2020/21 Premier League season, Vitinha joined Wolves on loan but found his playing time limited under Nuno Espirito Santo. There was an option to make his stay at the Molineux permanent, but Wolves were unwilling to pay the €20million fee and he returned to his parent club.

Forcing his way back into the first-team fold at Porto, Vitinha established himself as a vital member of the team as the Liga NOS giants won the double. The 22-year-old was used mainly as a central midfielder but did display some defensive qualities.

After such an impressive turnaround back in Portugal, there are now plenty of reports suggesting a return to the English top-flight is imminent as United step up their interest. The Red Devils are reported to be the club willing to activate Vitinha's £40m buy-out clause, as per Portuguese outlet Record.

The player is also a client of well-known super-agent Jorge Mendes, who has plenty of contacts at some of the biggest clubs across Europe - including Manchester United. Mendes' represents Cristiano Ronaldo and his relationship with the Old Trafford hierarchy is thought to be good.

HAVE YOUR SAY! Should Manchester United sign Vitinha? Comment below

Another Portuguese publication in O Jogo claim Barcelona have also reached out to Mendes to inquire out Vitinha - which in turn could ironically free up United to move for De Jong.

The same report states how the only reason Wolves did not sing Vitinha on a permanent basis was due to the impact the Covid-19 pandemic had on their finances. With Porto now in a position where they need to bring in some funds of their own, Vitinha's imminent exit seems likely.

A number of different publications in Portugal claim that United are the most likely next destination for Vitinha as he aims to crack the Premier League at the second time of asking.

As for United's pursuit of their other targets, Ruben Neves now appears unlikely to leave Wolves and De Jong has long made little secret of the fact he would favour the idea of staying at the Camp Nou.