SPORTING LISBON star Nani will return to Manchester United at the end of the season.

That's according to former Sporting chief Paulo De Alvandro, who claims United boss Louis van Gaal will want the Portugal winger back at Old Trafford.

Nani, who rejoined Sporting from United on a season-long loan in August, has enjoyed a sensational start to the new season and has seemingly given his career a kick-start.

Recent reports suggested that Van Gaal was looking to activate a clause to bring the 28-year-old back to Manchester in January.

Sporting have refuted that such a clause exists, but De Alvandro believes it is 'inevitable' that Nani will make a swift return to United.

“It is inevitable that Manchester United will want the player back at the end of the season”

                                                                                                                         Paulo De Alvandro

 

"It is inevitable that Manchester United will want the player back at the end of the season," Alvandro reportedly told A Bola.

"Van Gaal will be sorry to not have gambled on him sooner."

Nani has netted six times in 13 appearances following his switch back to Sporting - the club where he started his professional career.

His stunning form and performances has drawn huge praise form the United faithful watching from afar.

Earlier this month Nani expressed his delight at the recognition received and hinted that his long-term future was with United.

"It is always good to feel the affection of the fans. They want me back because they recognise that I am in good form and can be an asset for the club," he said.

"That is football. Sometimes we are praised and sometimes we are criticised."