Manchester United Transfers: Why Lucas Moura Is the Next Cristiano Ronaldo

The speculation looks set to finally come to an end—Manchester United Football Club are reportedly closing in on the signing of Brazilian phenom Lucas Moura from Sao Paulo (via Sky Sports).

It would be a £30 million deal that is perhaps worth £15 million in ability and £15 million in potential. Potential that Sir Alex recognises and no doubt reminds him of a teenager he had once seen play for Sporting Lisbon in 2003, potential that consequently persuaded him to make the youngster a United player within hours.

For make no mistake, Lucas will have landed in the right place, taking another step in the pursuit of excellence as many at Old Trafford have before him.

He will be developed by the right coaches, play with the right players and compete in a league that is comparable to none another in its ferocious demand for excellence.

His blistering pace, control and vision will be fully utilised, his skill and agility maximised.

He will be given opportunities, not just in the Premier League, but also in the FA Cup and in the Champions League to prove himself, lining up against the very best players.

He is joining a club with the legacy of Edwards, Best and Charlton before him, and with Giggs, Scholes and Rooney alongside him.

Expectations will be high—domestic glory is demanded, as is quality in its pursuit.

He will be roared on, not just by 70,000 Old Trafford fans, but by millions around the world who are proud to wear the red of United.

All of this and more leads to one very compelling conclusion—that Lucas Moura is destined to become Manchester United's next superstar, their next legend, their next Cristiano Ronaldo.