Having arrived in 2021 from Sporting Portugal, Nuno Mendes has quickly shown that he has great qualities. Unsurprisingly, Paris Saint-Germain were keen to secure the future of the 22-year-old left-back by extending his contract, which expires in 2026. However, there was a stumbling block and a possible transfer to Manchester United was mooted. According to L’Equipe, the situation has changed again.
“This capitulation is leading to a new about-face.”
“For several weeks, the atmosphere was tense between the two parties. Until a few days ago, when the player’s entourage realized that the Parisian leaders would not open the door. PSG, starting with coach Luis Enrique, refused.
And Manchester United, who do not have an unlimited budget for this mercato, reluctantly closed the file and looked at other possibilities. This capitulation is leading to a new about-face.
“PSG are still optimistic”.
In recent days, Mendes’ entourage have confided to their contacts that the most important probability today is to see him sign a new contract with Paris. Privately, the player is no longer talking about leaving. From a sporting point of view, Luis Enrique’s more flexible approach in late autumn has undoubtedly also helped.
PSG are still optimistic about their ability to reach an agreement. It’s important to remain cautious as long as nothing is signed.”
All the excitement of the last few weeks could therefore end in nothing other than the outcome that has always been the most likely. It’s yet another reminder of the need to be cautious when dealing with rumours in a mercato game that’s far from simple. There are many parameters and different strategies. In this case, we’ve never been able to rule out the possibility of Manchester United being mentioned as part of an agent’s pressure tactic. Although that’s not certain either.
In any case, for the time being, a transfer has not materialised and an extension still appears possible. Nuno Mendes has not shown the slightest lack of concentration, with performances that are always interesting and full of effort.
It remains to be seen whether the “new” probable outcome will materialize. We have to be careful, there’s nothing concrete yet. But we’ve no doubt that PSG would prefer to keep such a talent, especially in a position where great players are rare.
