Manchester United know the importance of starting afresh after getting overshadowed by the other big Premier League teams and Leicester over the last few seasons. Therefore, roping in someone who is referred to as the best Portuguese youth player since Cristiano Ronaldo could possibly help their cause in getting the glory days back.

According to the Daily Mail, the Red Devils have almost secured the signing of 18-year-old Benfica box-to-box midfielder Renato Sanches. The highly-rated youngster has a buy-out clause of nearly £60 million, but it has been reported that United could get him at Old Trafford for £46 million -- Â£31 million up front and £15 million in add-ons.

Sanches could also turn out to be the first signing for Manchester United in the summer transfer window 2016, which will officially commence on July 1.

Although eyed by several other major European football clubs, Sanches' next destination seems very likely to be Old Trafford. Benfica President Luis Felipe Vieira was seen in London on Thursday night, and it is reported that the club official held negotiations with Manchester United over the player.

The Premier League club also reportedly sent scouts to monitor Sanches during Portugal's international friendly match against Belgium in March. The player made his debut for the Portugal senior football team on March 25 against Bulgaria, four days prior to his second match against Belgium.

Sanches clocked up 22 appearances so far in the Portuguese top flight with Benfica this season, scoring once and assisting two goals. Benfica are currently the leaders in their domestic league, and have a close competition from Sporting CP with three games to go this season.

Sanches also made six appearances in the UEFA Champions League this season.