Manchester United Transfer News: Latest on Goncalo Guedes, Riyad Mahrez Rumours

Manchester United are ready to sign the player touted as the next Cristiano Ronaldo, as they make their move for Benfica winger Goncalo Guedes.

Italian media outlet Calciomercato (h/t Will Giles of Metro) claim Old Trafford manager Louis van Gaal is prepared to take action in the January transfer window after his side's slump in form, and he is ready to "table an offer" for the prodigious teenager.

Guedes became the youngest Portuguese player to score in the Champions League during the group stages of this season's competition, and he is seen by Van Gaal as back-up to the emerging talent of Anthony Martial, per Giles.

Here is a video showing why the youngster's reputation has exploded this year:

The 19-year-old has started nine times in the Portuguese Primeira Liga this season, scoring three goals, according to WhoScored.com.

The attacker has many stylistic qualities similar to Angel Di Maria, and he would electrify the Old Trafford crowd if Van Gaal allows the player to express himself.

According to German outlet Bild (via Metro's Tom Olver), United have extensively scouted Guedes, with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich also keeping tabs.

The player has enjoyed a fantastic campaign so far in 2015-16 and was called up to the national squad back in November, as highlighted by Portuguese football writer Jan Hagen:

RUI SILVA/Getty Images

United have looked impotent in attack this season, despite staying in touch with the top performers in the Premier League.

The reliance on Martial has burdened the France international, as Wayne Rooney's contribution in attack wears thin. 

Guedes would be unlikely to have a huge impact this season, as life in England can be punishing to newly purchased foreign talent. However, the long-term options would be beneficial to United if he develops in the same manner as Ronaldo.

Mahrez January Chase To End

Rui Vieira/Associated Press

United's pursuit of Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez could be over after both manager Claudio Ranieri and player snuffed out rumours about his future.

Laurie Whitwell of the MailOnline quoted Ranieri speaking about Mahrez and Jamie Vardy, and he has advised both talents to sit tight until the end of the season.

"I spoke to the two guys, we continue together, we can improve," said Ranieri. "Maybe at end of the season we can speak. We are in good flight now. I don't wait for their answer! If they believe in me—follow me."

The Algeria international also spoke to French radio station RMC and said he wants to remain loyal to the Foxes, after they showed great faith in him (h/t Simon Jones of the Daily Mail):

"

I was at Le Havre, I had six months left but nobody came to get me. Leicester tried very hard to get me. I could feel that they wanted me.

I took the decision without knowing the culture or the area. It was a risk. 

When you come from far away and you end up in the Premier League it makes you happy. I am happy that I signed for Leicester.

"

Sunday Alamba/Associated Press

Mahrez has been a sensation this year, and his form—coupled with the extraordinary efforts of Vardy—have been the central reason for Leicester's rise to the top of the Premier League.

However, with the Foxes riding the crest of a wave, it is unlikely the attacking midfielder would want to jump ship just as the club potentially earn a sacred spot in the Champions League. 

United certainly need additions in January, but there is an urgency to see ready-made world-class attackers at Old Trafford. 

Guedes could become one of the best players in the world, but there is also the chance he could be the next Nani—as opposed to Ronaldo. 

The Red Devils need an experienced goalscorer who can take the load off the shoulders of Martial, and a dynamic No. 10 who can hold his position behind the striker and not drift deep into midfield to receive the ball.

If Van Gaal can secure two players with these requirements, United have every chance of challenging for the league title in the second half of the season.