Manchester United have dismissed reports that the club has agreed personal terms with Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic, according to the Telegraph. The 28-year-old has been widely linked with a move to United and a reunion with Jose Mourinho in the last few weeks. The transfer has been put on hold as Chelsea look to complete the £35 million transfer of Tiemoue Bakayoko from Monaco. Bakayoko is expected to complete his move to Chelsea next week. Then, Matic would be able to join a club ready to pay the reported £40 million valuation set by the Blues.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is apparently keen on signing the 28-year-old after having enjoyed a great working relationship with the Serbian during his days at Chelsea. A defensive midfielder remains a top priority at United in this summer transfer window, but the club have so far been concentrating heavily on adding to the forward line-up. Lack of progress in the negotiations for Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata continues to frustrate Mourinho, who has been keen to add to the squad before the pre-season begins on July 9.
Now, United’s denial about agreeing personal terms with Matic suggest that the club remain open with their options. Fabinho is a much younger alternative at 23 years of age, and he will also cost substantially less than Matic. There have been widespread reports of United agreeing a £30 million fee with Monaco for the transfer of Fabinho. A number of clubs, though, remain in contention for the Brazilian.
Matic, though, would offer United plenty of experience and quality straightaway.Not many clubs are after Matic, who appears more interested in joining United in order to link up with Jose Mourinho. However, that can be no denying that his role at Chelsea will reduce substantially once Bakayoko comes to Stamford Bridge. Matic’s contract with Chelsea runs until 2019, but transfer rumours surrounding the player are surprising since he played a major role in Antonio Conte’s team last season by making 35 appearances in the league.
Victor Lindelof’s transfer for £31 million has been the only major move at United so far.
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