Manchester United have for a while now been linked with 23-year-old midfielder Orkun Kokcu.
The former Feyenoord captain has been courted by numerous teams before he finally decided to commit to Portuguese side Benfica last summer for around €30 million.
This move has however not gone according to plan for the Turk, as reports are coming in that he is extremely unhappy in Portugal.
This is fantastic news for Manchester United, as Portuguese outlet O Jogo confirms that The Red Devils are very keen on bringing the midfielder to Old Trafford after failing last summer.
According to a report published just last week by De Telegraaf and as confirmed by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Kokcu is very unhappy at Benfica especially about the game time and role he is getting.
In the report, Kokcu accuses Benfica manager Roger Schmidt of misusing him and not fulfilling the promises that led to him signing for the Liga NOS giants.
“No, this is not what I expected. There was a lot going on in the transfer market last summer, I made a conscious choice for Benfica with the idea that this was the best step in my career to further develop in all areas. That has only partially happened,” Kokcu said.
“I have of course seen how other players have been put in the spotlight in Portugal and at other big clubs. That creates a certain status. I never felt like I was being made to feel important from the start. Not even by the coach!” he concluded.
It is rumoured the 23-year-old was promised a more advanced role for Benfica, but he has primarily been deployed in the central defensive midfield position.
United are very keenly following up on the midfielder’s situation and could be looking to bring him in the summer.
This may be a challenge, however, since Benfica are not planning to sell because they believe Kokcu has a high ceiling to improve in the coming years.
It is reported Benfica could demand at least €40 million if they decide to cash in on Kokcu this summer.