Coral’s Rumour Reel: Valencia defender to force Man Utd move?

Manchester United have enjoyed a successful summer of arrivals so far, having finally boosted their midfield areas, but Louis van Gaal will still be seeking defensive reinforcements for next term (6/1 with Coral for 2015/16 title).

Long-standing target Nicolas Otamendi will reportedly go on strike at his current club Valencia in order to force through his desired move to Old Trafford. The La Liga centre back has been superb in his maiden campaign and could forge a strong defensive partnership with fellow Argentine Marcos Rojo at United.

Bayern Munich’s Poland international frontman Robert Lewandowski is another target for Van Gaal, but his agent has stated that a bid of at least £35m must be made to tempt his client.

A possible departure from the red half of Manchester could be another Argentina international, with Angel di Maria continuously linked with a switch to French champions PSG. The 27-year-old endured an indifferent debut season and Laurent Blanc’s side are lining up a £42.8m bid for his services, despite United having bought him for nearly £60m.

On the other side of the city, Manchester City are set to rival Liverpool for the signing of promising Fulham forward Patrick Roberts, with the Championship side wanting £10m for the teenager.

In the capital, FA Cup champions Arsenal (7/1 to retain), are attempting to lure Napoli defender Faozi Ghoulam to the Emirates, with the 24-year-old a potential challenger for Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Monreal at left back.