Manchester United are reportedly close to signing Nicolas Gaitan from Benfica with the players agent also confirming talks, according to the Daily Star.
The Red Devils have long been linked with a move for the Argentina international and they are reportedly locked in talks over a possible deal for the 27-year-old.
Reports: Liverpool could hijack Man Utd’s deal for Gaitan
The aforementioned source claims that the winger – valued at €34 million (£24m) – is nearing a move to Old Trafford after negotiations entered their later stages, with all parties now awaiting the Portuguese side to give the move a green light.
Gaitan had a rather poor 55% pass accuracy in the Champions League last season
A previous report by the Star claimed that Liverpool are interested in Gaitan and could hijack United’s negotiations. However, the latest claims by the paper would seem to suggest that the Red Devils are in the box seat.
Gaitan moved to Benfica from Argentinian side Boca Juniors back in 2010 and has consistently impressed during his five years in Portugal. The 27-year-old has been mentioned in conjunction with a Premier League move in previous windows, although it is looking like a realistic destination this summer.
The player’s agent, Jose Irribaren, has added fuel to the fire by making claims that appear to suggest his client would welcome a move to Old Trafford.
Irribaren told Antena 1, via the Star: “Everything is possible. There is a negotiation which is pending with Manchester United. The will of the player is that everything runs as smoothly as possible.”
Gaitan was Benfica’s most creative player in the Champions League last season.
Louis van Gaal has been linked with moves for numerous players since the season ended but has so far only managed to capture Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven.
Should Gaitan join he would offer United plenty of attacking craft and brings Champions League experience having played in the competition on a regular basis for Benfica, including five appearances in the last season.
Gaitan had a 50% shot accuracy in the Champions Legue last term.
Topics: Nicolas Gaitan
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