Aleksandar Mitrovic revealed as target for European giants

Record, the Portuguese newspaper, report that Jorge Jesus, the club's coach, has identified Mitrovic as a potential replacement for Islam Slimani.

Slimani, a player that has previously interested Newcastle, is expected to leave Sporting this summer.

And Jesus, previously in charge of Benfica, believes Mitrovic – who scored nine Premier League goals in his first season in English football – could fill his boots.

However, United manager Rafa Benitez does not have to sell this summer, and Sporting would struggle to tempt Newcastle to part with the 21-year-old, who cost £13million last year.

Mitrovic's wages would also break the wage structure at the Estadio Jose Alvalade.