Manchester United Transfer Rumours

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Southampton star Nathaniel Clyne "has set his heart on a summer switch to Manchester United" and will replace out-of-favour Brazilian Rafael da Silva in Louis van Gaal's plans

The Daily Star says the Saints full-back has been on United's radar for months and the Old Trafford club are at the front of the queue to sign the 24-year-old England defender this summer.

According to the Star, Van Gaal has told Brazil international Rafael da Silva he's now surplus to requirements and Clyne is his successor-in-waiting. At one point, says the Star, van Gaal had contemplated a move for Barcelona's Daniel Alves but he's now focused his attention on Clyne and it's believed United are expected to table a a £25m bid at the end of the season.

The Star quotes a source close to Clyne saying: "The player has made it known that United are his first choice, the deal is not done yet but it is a clear indication of his thinking."

While Clyne is eager to continue his career in Manchester, there are fears that goalkeeper David de Gea wants to move on to pastures new. The Spanish stopper, who has been in fantastic form this season, has only one year left on his contract and has so far resisted United's efforts to tie him to an extension, says the Daily Mirror. It adds that he is aware that Real Madrid want him to replace Iker Casillas.

Many United players are now convinced that De Gea will leave at the end of the season claims the Mirror. But it suggests that United will demand a fee close to £50m for the keeper, or will try and negotiate a swap deal involving Gareth Bale.

Read more: http://www.theweek.co.uk/man-utd-transfer-news-3#ixzz3XwdZuOu2