Flamengo manager Dorival Junior has reiterated his desire to retain the services of Manchester United loanee Andreas Pereira, amid mounting speculation about his future.
The Brazilian, who joined Flamengo on a season-long loan deal last August, made a flying start to his time at the club, earning rave reviews and plaudits. However, after committing a costly error in the Copa Libertadores final defeat to fellow Brazilian side Palmeiras last November, Flamengo and their supporters have had doubts about signing him on a permanent basis.
Flamengo have the option to turn Pereira's loan spell into a permanent deal at £8.9million (€10.5m), but the club, according to various reports, is not expected to exercise that option. It means that the 26-year-old, who is out of contract at Old Trafford next summer, will return to M16 ahead of the start of the new season.
READ MORE: Antony transfer to Manchester United could spell bad news for four players
But despite the ongoing uncertainty about his future, Flamengo boss Junior has admitted that he would like to keep hold of the attacking midfielder. He believes Pereira can still continue to develop for the better.
"It's just an opinion. I hope he stays," said Junior. "Players of this level, players with this potential, are few in Brazil. I have no doubt that this boy can still grow a lot, he can evolve a lot.
"How will it happen? I don't know, but it would be really nice if we could hold onto this kid because he has a lot of qualities. He is a player that draws attention in any way. He has growth potential, players of that level are scarce at the moment within this country."
Pereira, who joined United more than a decade ago back in 2011, has racked up 49 appearances in Flamengo colours, scoring seven goals and grabbing three assists. He has only made 75 appearances for United at first-team level since being awarded his senior debut back in August 2014 in a forgettable 4-0 defeat to MK Dons in the League Cup.
READ NEXT:
-
Paul Pogba saved his most insulting comment until last at Manchester United
-
Man United have a new transfer deadline after being handed Liverpool opportunity
-
Paul Pogba lashes out at Manchester United as Mino Raiola conversation emerges
-
Gary Neville agrees with Manchester United fans' concerns over transfer activity
-
Manchester United interested in Christian Eriksen free transfer this summer
