The representatives of Lille centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes are in the UK to negotiate a move for the footballer, with Red Devils and Everton battling it out for his signature.
Man United have identified Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho as their main transfer target this summer but the Norwegian manager is also keen to bring in a centre-back to partner Harry Maguire.
Harry has largely impressed since joining from Leicester in a world-record £80m switch but Maguire’s lack of mobility has been exposed on several occasions in his debut campaign and Man United are scouring the market for a defender with pace.
U23 Brazil international has been firmly on Red Devils radar in recent weeks but the clubface stiff contest from their Premier League rivals for the centre-back’s signature. Magalhaes made no secret of his ambitions to play in the PL when quizzed about Gunners reported interest earlier this year.
His representatives are currently in the UK and talking to two English clubs, with Man United and Everton among those interested. He underwent a medical with Toffees before the lockdown but Everton have so far failed to finalise a deal for the defender. Magalhaes is expected to make a decision on his future over the coming days.
Napoli were weighing up a bid for Magalhaes but have since cooled their interest in the defender. Lille completed the signing of Sven Botman from Ajax this week and the Dutchman is being viewed as a possible long-term replacement for Magalhaes at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. It’s understood Lille will listen to offers of nearly €30m for Magalhaes.
