Man United lead Man City in race to sign Mendes, deal will get done – sources
Man United are leading Man City in the race to sign PSG left-back Nuno Mendes, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the 22-year-old is United’s top target as they look to sign a left-wing-back to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s side.
Man City, meanwhile, have been looking at potential new recruits across multiple key positions in their side as they eye an overhaul of Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Left-back has been an area of concern for the boss for a number of years and Mendes has been a long-term target thanks to his performances for PSG and Portugal.
However, United are currently the favourites to reach an agreement with the left-back and there is confidence that the deal will get done.
Both clubs will be made to wait until the summer to get any deal over the line, though, as PSG are reluctant to see a key player leave in the middle of the season.
Man United lead Man City in race to sign PSG star next summer
Delaying the deal until the summer is also expected to suit United’s recruitment plans.
While signing a new left-back remains their top priority, the Red Devils are set to be limited in their spending as a result of their difficult financial situation.
Football finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider in December that United are not in a position to spend big on transfers this month.
However, their position may change after the financial accounts deadline on 30 June, when any concerns about profit and sustainability breaches will be eased.
With PSG expected to demand a significant fee for Mendes, United are willing to wait until the summer in their attempts to get a deal over the line.
In the mean time, the scouting department are continuing to assess their options to strengthen Amorim’s side between now and the end of the season.
There is a growing feeling at Old Trafford that the manager will need backing in the transfer market to turn promising early signs into consistency.
In other news, Man United may be forced to sell Harry Amass after a new twist.
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