United end Otamendi interest

It was reported by Valencia-based TV station SillasGol on Wednesday that the 27-year-old was on the verge of a move to Old Trafford, but the Mirror claims City are hopeful of completing a deal for a player they too are long-term admirers on.

The links between Manchester United and Nicolas Otamendi aren’t going away.

Manchester City want to beat Manchester United to £35million-rated defender Nicolas Otamendi, once they land Kevin De Bruyne.

Otamendi was linked with a move to United earlier in the summer with the Express claiming last month that United officials had held formal talks with the players agent before they appeared to switch focus to Sergio Ramos. But the report has quickly been countered elsewhere, including by Sky Sports, which states that there is no interest from United in the 27-year-old. Premier League champions Chelsea have had a bid for the 21-year-old rejected by Everton. According to reports, Ramos will be paid 10 million euros every season. Van Gaal has made it clear that he wants more attacking options in his squad following the departures of Robin van Persie, Radamel Falcao and Ángel di María this summer.

One of those is expected to be Barcelona star Pedro who is set to move to United in a £22m deal in the next few days. The likelihood is Jasper Cillessen would replace David de Gea, though Hugo Lloris might tempt United if he regains his fitness in time.