Manchester United’s Andreas Pereira insists he’s still prioritising a move to Flamengo despite interest from Premier League duo Fulham and Crystal Palace, speaking via Goal.
If this was the Brazil international’s farewell appearance for the Brazilian giants, well it’s safe to say he signed off in style.
Pereira scored the only goal of the game during Flamengo’s 1-0 Copa Libertadores victory over Colombian outfit Deportes Tolima on Wednesday night. And what a goal it was. Taking aim from 25 yards out, Pereira whipped a sublime shot into the top corner.
On this evidence, a £9 million transfer fee could prove to be a snip for a player who looks all-but certain to bring an end to his long association with Manchester United in the coming days. Where the diminutive playmaker ends up next, however, is less certain.
Will Andreas Pereira join Fulham or Crystal Palace from Man United?
According to Brazilian reporter Jorge Nicola, Fulham have had a £9 million bid accepted by United. Crystal Palace have made an enquiry of their own, as Patrick Vieira looks to bring in a cultured, stylish central midfielder to partner the more physical Cheick Doucoure at Selhurst Park next season (Extra).
But, given the choice, Pereira would prefer to stick around on the other side of the Atlantic.
“I’m not the one who decides – it’s up to Man United,” says Pereira, who played 40 games under Ole Gunner Solskjaer in 2019/20 but has not pulled on that iconic red shirt since then.
“I would like to stay at Flamengo but it’s not in my hands. I’ll see what’s best for me and the club. I love Flamengo. We will soon speak and decide.
“The relationship between myself and Flamengo has always been very good. This year was incredible for me. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll always leave with my head held high.
“I love the club, I love Flamengo, I’m Flamengo. If I leave, I will come back in the future.”
Unfortunately for Pereira, the possibility of securing a permanent deal at the Maracana went up in smoke a few weeks ago.
According to Nicola, negotiations with Flamengo collapsed after the Brazilian giants attempted to change the terms of the deal – a development that left United less than impressed. The Flamengo ship, it seems, has long since left the harbour.
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