>
Bayern Munich have confirmed the arrival of long-term target Renato Sanches from Benfica, dealing a heavy blow to Manchester United who also had their eye on the player.
Carlo Ancelotti, who will be managing the Bundesliga champions from next season, now has the services of one of European football’s brightest young midfielders for €35m (£27.8m, $39.8m), plus bonuses.
In a statement released via their official website, Bayern confirmed that the 18-year-old completed a medical on Monday (9 May) and has signed a five-year deal that will keep him at the Allianz Arena until 2021.
The imminent return of centre-back Mats Hummels from Borussia Dortmund for an undisclosed fee was also announced.
Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said in a statement:
“FC Bayern has been watching Renato Sanches for a long period. We’re pleased we’ve been able to sign him, despite big-name international competition. Renato is dynamic, a good tackler and a technically-skilled midfielder who’ll add even more strength to our team.”
Confirming the specific financial details of that deal, deputy Jan-Christian Dreesen added:
“The transfer fee for the current international, who was voted the Shooting Star Of Portuguese Football in his home country yesterday evening, is €35 million, plus possible bonus payments that could become due if, for example, the player is named in the World Team Of The Year or Fifa World Player Of The Year.”