Manchester United target Sergio Ramos has told Real Madrid that he wants to leave the club, reports the Daily Express.
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This comes amid reports that the Red Devils have made a £28.6 million bid for the 29-year-old, including this from the BBC. However, the negotiations are far from over, with Los Blancos’ interest in David De Gea likely to play a part in proceedings. MARCA has reported that United boss Louis van Gaal is dragging his heels over the 24-year-old’s move, but the Express believe that Real may well ask for him as part of a deal for Ramos now.
Whether the Old Trafford hierarchy would entertain this idea is another matter. However, it is obvious that the Red Devils are in need of a new centre-back. Last season they had to rely heavily on goalkeeper De Gea, with players such as Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, and Jonny Evans all looking error-prone. With the team competing in the Champions League next time round they will likely need to upgrade their back line if they are to have any chance of success.
MARCA have claimed that Ramos and Real president Florentino Perez are €2.5 million apart in their contract negotiations. This source of unhappiness has forced the player to ask for a move, and United could well be the lucky side as a result. They may have to fight off local rivals Manchester City for his signature though, according to ESPN.