MANCHESTER UNITED ARE hopeful of completing the signing of Villarreal defender Eric Bailly as Jose Mourinho looks to bolster his squad ahead of the new season.
The new United boss has identified Ivory Coast international Bailly as his primary transfer target as he turns his attention to strengthening his defensive options.
With Zlatan Ibrahimovic reportedly on the verge of signing a one-year deal with the Premier League club, Mourinho has moved quickly to stamp his mark on the Old Trafford squad.
It’s been reported that United have offered to pay €20 million for the 22-year-old and multiple sources say the clubs have reached an agreement in principle for a deal which could then rise to €40 million.
Bailly moved to Villarreal 18 months ago as a replacement for Gabriel, who signed for Arsenal, after spending two seasons at Espanyol.
He featured at the heart of the the Spanish side’s defence this season as they reached the Europa League semi-finals and finished fourth in La Liga.
Bailly has made 13 appearances for his country, and was central to their African Nations Cup win last year, starting all six of Ivory Coast’s games.
His arrival at Old Trafford could pave the way for Daley Blind’s departure, with recent reports suggesting the Dutch defender has been deemed surplus to requirements by Mourinho should the club receive the right bid.
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