Confirmed: Man United target prefers England move: Deal very possible

Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Mario and his father will hold talks with the club with regards to his future.

Manchester United have been linked with the player and were reported to have send scouts to watch him recently.

Mario could come as a replacement for  Renato Sanches that was believed to be close to Old Trafford before his move to Bayern.

The player's father Joao Mario Eduardo, has said his son is keen on a move to England though he didn't rule out the 23 year old staying back with Sporting. 

"That’s what we will evaluate when I meet Sporting. I’m in Luanda and I’ll be back on Thursday, then we’ll talk. Joao has offers but he can stay as well.

"If he leaves Sporting, his preference is England." His father  told Diario de Noticias via Daily Mail.

His father however reckons that the club that will sign his son will have to pay more than what Bayern paid for Sanches.(£26.7m)

"Sporting have already set a minimum to talk and I can say that it’s bigger than Renato Sanches, for example, but it all depends on what the clubs want to pay and offer." He added.

The player has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, Chelsea, PSG and Arsenal

With Michael Carrick almost certain to leave the club, United need another constant intelligent presence in the midfield.