Scout Report: Who Is This 19-Year-Old Portuguese Winger Manchester United And Arsenal Are Chasing?

The top clubs in the Premier League do not have too many things in common but one thing that most clubs do in unison is scout for young potential stars to add them to their squad. Manchester United and Arsenal have, in the past, fought for a single player in the transfer window and reports today suggest that the duo might now be in a bidding war over Benfica winger Goncalo Guedes. The 19-year old has been in impressive form this season and has attracted interests from some of the best clubs in Europe and is one of the most exciting youngsters around it the market. Both Premier League clubs are ready to pounce on him and here is a peek into his scout report for people who are new to the Primeira Liga.

Born in Benavente, Portugal, the 19-year old winger started his professional career with the B-side of Benfica back in 2014. It took him no time to be promoted to the senior side where he has made 32 appearances for the side in the last two seasons. He has also represented the Portuguese national side in every domestic level and already has a couple of caps for the senior side. At his age, he is easily one of the most attractive prospects in Europe and will be snapped up by some big European clubs in years to come.

Known for his awareness on an off the ball, Guedes is an excellent passer of the ball, who loves to set up his team mates on goal constantly during a game. His dribbling ability along with his technique allow him to dictate terms on the wing while his pace is just an added advantage for his side. He loves to take on his man and deliver crosses into the box but is equally adept in staying patient and breaking defenses down during a game. His astonishing figures of 4 assists in 3 starts for the side this season show that kind of an impact that he can have on the squad.

Though he used his positioning and strength well to hold the ball in dangerous areas, Guedes at his age is not the strongest player around and will find the physical approach of the Premier League a bit too demanding. In Portugal, the 19-year old plays for a side that loves to dominate possession during games, which allows him time and space on the ball which will not be the case in big leagues. It will be a problem that he will surely face if he makes the move anytime soon. Lack of experience in the top flight is also a problem but that is not something that cannot be solved.

Having made a sizzling start to his career for the national side, Guedes will surely be a regular in the national team in a couple of years from now but he will have to make sure that he keeps working hard to builds on his weaknesses to give his side a chance. At 19, he has plenty of years to improve on his game and will only get better the more game time he gets under his belt. So it will be important for Guedes to stay at Benfica and build himself into a player that can rule the Premier League. He is best advised to stay in the Portuguese league till he is strong and experienced enough to have a go in the most competitive league in the world with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United.