Benfica are only willing to accept offers of £21.5m in cash for Nicolas Gaitan, making Manchester United favourites for his signature according to the Daily Express.
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Atletico Madrid had tabled a swap deal for the winger, with forward Angel Correa going the other way. However, the Primeira Liga side aren’t interested in this bid, and will only accept approaches if they promise to pay the Argentina international’s full £21.5m asking price.
This will be a major boost to the Red Devils, who are willing to pay whatever it takes to sign the singer according to the Express. United are in far better financial shape than the Rojiblancos, being named the second richest club in the world last January [Sky Sports]. This means that they should easily be able to outbid Atleti if needed.
Able to play on either wing or just behind the main striker, Gaitan could be the perfect signing for United. Manager Louis van Gaal has revealed his preference for “multi-functional” players, reported Goal.com, and with the Dutchman’s regular formation changes, versatility is key at Old Trafford.
If the wide-man does arrive in Manchester it could be bad news for compatriot Angel Di Maria. The Red Devils are apparently willing to sell the former Real Madrid man for just £35m [Daily Express] after trouble settling in, despite signing him for £59.7m last summer [BBC].
Gaitan could be the perfect replacement for him with his ability to play on both sides of the pitch. Bayern Munich and PSG are both keen to take Di Maria if United do decide to cut their losses according to the Express.