Nicolas Otamendi wants Man United move sorted in next 10 days before Valencia training begins

Manchester United are reportedly readying their approach for Valencia’s Nicolas Otamendi, after it was revealed by Spanish publisher MARCA that the 27-year-old defender will avoid pre-season training in an effort to push forward the transfer.

According to Spanish daily AS (via Metro’s Jamie Sanderson), representative Eugenio Lopez travelled to the UK in the hope that United can agree a deal with Otamendi’s La Liga employers.

Otamendi, through his agent, has made it known that he wants to leave Valencia this summer and with Manchester United and Real Madrid interested, he is not of short of suitors.

The Argentine has allegedly told his club that he would like to leave them this summer, but since then there has been nothing but speculation around his next move.

In these cases the will of the player is very important.

Should United decide they want to sign the 27-year-old, they will likely need to meet his £35.5 million fee release clause [Metro], although considering the unconvincing performances of the likes of Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling, van Gaal may feel that a new stopper is a necessity.

Following the captures of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin from Bayern Munich and Southampton, respectively, United have solved a central-midfield woe many believe has been evident since Roy Keane’s exit in 2005.

Valencia defender Nicolas Otamendi looks set to join Manhcester United, to be joined by PSG’s Edinson Cavani.

Louis van Gaal is keen to strengthen the heart of his defense, after being forced to use youngsters Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair on occasions last season.