Facundo Pellistri is reportedly close to sealing a loan move to Brazilian giants Flamengo, despite Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag suggesting that he'd stay put.
Pellistri, 21, made his Red Devils debut earlier this month, more than two years after signing for the club. The Uruguayan winger gave a good first account of himself, too, helping book United's place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with an assist for Marcus Rashford.
Post-match, Ten Hag hinted that Pellistri would remain at Old Trafford, having spent much of the past two seasons with Spanish side Deportivo Alaves. Now, though, it appears that the ex-Penarol starlet, who wants more game-time, will be packing his bags again.
According to O Globo, Pellistri is in advanced talks to join Flamengo on loan before the January transfer window slams shut later this month. Boss Vitor Pereira has already given his approval and Old Trafford chiefs have managed to get his full wages covered.
Flamengo's rivals, Botafogo, also made an attempt to sign Pellistri but failed to meet the Red Devils' demands. What's more, United already have an established relationship with Flamengo officials after former midfielder Andreas Pereira spent last term on loan with the Rio de Janeiro-based heavyweights.
The move could come as a surprise to many Red Devils supporters, especially considering Ten Hag's recent comments on the Uruguay international, who featured at the World Cup. " I see a future in him," the United manager affirmed. "He is doing really well and we have to see what is the best. He is progressing. Against Everton [in a behind-closed doors friendly], I was really happy with his performance.
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"I was happy with his performance at the World Cup so his progress is really good and now he is coming on and has an effect. So that's the next step that I say: 'well done Pelli, keep going'. Ten Hag later added: "I mentioned already Pellistri came on and it was a debut. It was not long but he was really lively, some good actions and also the assist on the second goal."
Pellistri could be followed out of the door by fellow wide forward Anthony Elanga. The Sweden international, also 21, is reportedly wanted by Borussia Dortmund, Everton and Bournemouth on a half-season loan.
Ten Hag has downplayed reports of Elanga's departure, though, admitting: "I know we have good players and I know a lot of clubs will have an interest in players who aren’t playing for us so often. But we need the squad. We need depth in the squad and especially, I would say, the frontline."
