LONDAN (Sporting Alert) — Manchester United have been vigorously linked with a move for Barcelona’s right-back Dani Alves, but reports in England are claiming that a deal for Southampton’s Nathaniel Clyne has already been struck.
This is no secret that manager Louis van Gaal wants to bring in a right-back in the summer transfer window, as he doesn’t believe that the injury curse Rafael da Silva can stay healthy for an entire season.
British and European media are heavily linking Alves, who seems well set to leave Barcelona, to Manchester United, but according to the Daily Mirror’s David McDonnell, it is Clyne, who is heading to Old Trafford.
In fact, McDonnell claims that the move has already been finalised.
He was quoted as saying on MUTV: “From what I’m told, it’s a done deal.”
It is believed that Southampton are wanting at least £17 million for the England full-back, who revealed last week that he wants to play in the Champions League next season.
There are also reports that are saying that forward Javier Hernandez could be part of any deal involving Clyne, with the Mexican, who is currently on loan at Real Madrid, revealing earlier this month that he wants to stay in the English Premier League.
Alves put several clubs in Europe on alert when his agent revealed that the World Cup star turned down a new contract offer from Barcelona and is considering his options, including an offer from PSG.
Manchester United were said to be interested in connecting with the Brazilian, but it seems Van Gaal has a preference for Clyne, who could now join former teammate Luke Shaw.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United right-back and current Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville says his ex-club is only three signing away from competing for the title next season.
“United need to continue to improve in two or three positions – a central defender, midfielder and a winger,” Neville said to The Sun.
“I don’t think this summer is a case of a total restructure of the squad. It is a case of trading well.
“I think three coming in and one or two going out rather than wholesale buying. I don’t expect another £150m spend.”
After a miserable campaign last season where they missed the Champions League, Manchester United are now third in the English Premier League standings behind Chelsea and Arsenal.
