Man United given boost in pursuit of midfield duo
Published:
Manchester United’s pursuit of new midfield talent has been boosted after two of their top targets became increasingly available.
Real Madrid’s capture of Toni Kroos is likely to mean a Bernebeu exit for Argentina’s Angel Di Maria and while the World Cup star was expected to opt for a mega money move to PSG reports suggest the 26-year-old has snubbed the French giants.
According to Spanish newspaper AS the Paris club made a formal enquiry over the weekend only to be told that the player prefers a move to the Premier League.
United’s lack of Champions League football could provide a huge obstacle to any deal but with confidence in the Red Devils high on the back of new manager Louis van Gaal’s World Cup exploits the club are quietly assured that a deal can be struck.
Van Gaal, whose side have been cut to 5/1 to reclaim the Premier League crown, has already added Ander Herrera to the midfield but Di Maria is not the only target he is chasing.
The Dutchman is also a keen admirer of Juventus’ Chile international Arturo Vidal and while the two clubs are yet to agree on a valuation it is believed that a deal is imminent.
Van Gaal refuses to be held to ransom over the player in the wake of United’s new £750m kit deal with Adidas, but Vidal has hinted at a desire to make the switch, which could make the process slightly easier.
When recently questioned about the prospect of a move to Old Trafford Vidal said: “I’ve heard about the rumours, but I haven’t spoken more about this subject.
“I’m very calm, but anyone would love to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.”
Transfer activity is set to significantly increase at United once Van Gaal reports for duty on July 18. In order to make way for fresh talent the new boss is reportedly willing to listen to offers for Wilfried Zaha, Marouane Fellaini, Danny Welbeck, Anderson and Javier Hernandez.
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