Manchester United open talks with Joel Pereira after Jose Mourinho hails potential of young goalkeeper

Manchester United are in discussions with goalkeeper Joel Pereira over a new contract.

The 20-year-old Portuguese has impressed Jose Mourinho with his attitude and his brief loan spell at Portuguese side Belenenses.

Pereira made his first-team debut as a second-half substitute in Manchester United's FA Cup victory over Wigan in January. That, however, remains his only senior appearance for the club to date.

Manchester United are in discussions with goalkeeper Joel Pereira over a new contract

Manchester United are in discussions with goalkeeper Joel Pereira over a new contract

Regardless, Mourinho recently stated that Pereira has the potential to be the best Portuguese goalkeeper of his generation.


'We have two fantastic goalkeepers,' Mourinho said. 'We have a third goalkeeper that I think will be the best Portuguese goalkeeper of the next generation so anyone in goal I trust completely.'

Jose Mourinho hailed Pereira as one of the brightest talents in Portuguese football

Jose Mourinho hailed Pereira as one of the brightest talents in Portuguese football

Aston Villa are hoping to sign on-loan goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a permanent basis

Aston Villa are hoping to sign on-loan goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a permanent basis

There are also scheduled talks with regards to another Manchester United goalkeeper, although it looks as though discussions will centre around a permanent exit rather than a contract extension.

United will hold talks with Aston Villa this week about the prospective sale of Sam Johnstone to the Championship club. 

Villa are hoping to strike a deal for around £3.5million.