Manchester United are, reportedly at least, wasting no time at all this transfer window.
Not even a week on from losing their FA Cup final to Chelsea a Wembley, Jose Mourinho already appears to be working on crafting his squad for next season. A bid for Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred has been confirmed by the Brazilian international, and it also appears United are lining up a move for Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld.
The defender was named in Belgium’s World Cup squad earlier this months, despite only making six appearances for Spurs since returning from injury in January.
His failure to reclaim his place in Mauricio Pochettino’s starting XI has seen a number of reports claiming he’s set to leave North London this summer. With Mourinho eager to bolster his defence this summer, United are now tipped to be one of his most likely destinations.
If Alderweireld does depart for Old Trafford, some reports have claimed Spurs may ask for Anthony Martial to be sent in the opposite direction. The Frenchman has struggled for opportunities at United following the arrival of Alexis Sanchez last January and missed out on a place in Didier Deschamps World Cup squad.
Although there has been plenty of speculation surrounding Martial’s future in recent weeks, ESPN report that United are determined to resist any attempts made by Spurs to include him in any deal for Alderweireld.
The likes of Barcelona and Juventus have already been mentioned in the press as potential destinations for Martial, who started just four league games for United since February. Despite this, the report claims United are hopeful of keeping the 22-year-old, although will listen to offers if he makes it known he wishes to leave.
As for Alderweireld, Tottenham appear resigned to losing the 29-year-old. With little hope of extending his current deal, the report claims they may be willing to let him leave for a fee of around £50m.
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