Manchester United closing in on Porto's Alex Telles

 

Manchester United have stepped up their interest in FC Porto left-back Alex Telles and are confident of closing a deal before next week's deadline, claims The Guardian.

 

United's initial offer of £12m has come in well under Porto's £18m asking price but the Red Devils believe they can drive down the fee.

 

Having already entered the final 12 months of his current deal, United are aware they can sign Telles for nothing at the end of the season.

 

Coupled with the fact Porto need to sell Telles to ease their financial concerns, United believe their £18m asking price is unrealistic.

 

Porto are not expected to accept United's opening offer but talks are progressing quickly and Telles has already agreed personal terms with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side.

 

 

The United head coach wants to sign Telles to provide competition with Luke Shaw and allow Brandon Williams to move over as cover for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

 

Telles would offer far greater attacking intent than any of United's current full-backs and Solskjaer hopes the experienced defender will add another dimension to their attack.

 

In fact, since the start of 2017/18, Telles has played a direct hand in 54 more league goals (59) than Shaw (5).