Grêmio analyzes deal for striker Michael, from Al-Hilal

After surveys by several Brazilian teams, the Saudi team Al-Hilal set the value for the sale of right winger Michael at around € 8 million (R$ 44 million). With that, the team gave up keeping the player, who is a reserve there, and intends to sell him for a high price. Coach Renato Portaluppi dreams of having Michael at Grêmio and continues to pressure management to make the purchase. However, the value is very high for Tricolor standards. The Colombian Jaminton Campaz was the biggest acquisition in the club’s history, with R$ 23.5 million invested. Michael would cost practically twice as much to Grêmio coffers.

Portaluppi and Michael have a great relationship since they worked together at Flamengo. The coach managed to raise the striker to the starting lineup and he reciprocates with goals and victories. Last Saturday, after the draw against São Luiz, Renato said that Michael would change the level of Tricolor and does not hide his desire to have the athlete.

Portaluppi sees a problem in the group of players. While it has more than ten midfielders, the attack lacks pointers to help Luis Suárez. The best wing player is Ferreira, who has been suffering from injuries and has been a promise for years. Besides him, there are Everton Galdino and Gustavinho. However, these athletes do not have Michael’s characteristics: speed, dribbling and ability to break lines. This style of striker is essential for Portaluppi’s scheme to work.

Despite being difficult, the Grêmio management analyzes the hiring of Michael, as they understand the need for more quality on the wing. However, to have the player, Portaluppi would have to give up other athletes, such as Thiago Santos, Diogo Barbosa and Lucas Silva, kept in the group by the coach for specific situations. Regarding the deal with Al-Hilal, rumors say that businessman Celso Rigo would help Grêmio with guarantees.

Grêmio returns to physical activities this Wednesday (22). All athletes were given days off after Saturday’s game. Only the injured resumed training on Monday. Imortal’s next match will take place on Saturday, at 8 pm, against Novo Hamburgo.