Manchester United round-up: Midfielder deal close; Perisic boost; Turkish star scouted

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The Independent report that Manchester United have admitted defeat in their pursuit of Tottenham midfielder Eric Dier and will now look to complete a £40 million move for Chelsea man Nemanja Matic. The Red Devils had feared that the Blues would refuse to sell to them after signing their top target Romelu Lukaku.

Now, Ed Woodward and co. are confident that Roman Abramovich will not stand in the way of a potential deal and will instead look to cash in. With just a year left on his contract at Stamford Bridge, it is easy to see why the reigning champions are looking to sell him and reinvest in their squad.

Another addition could be on their way too. That is after Inter Milan manager Luciano Spalletti spoke to confirm that the club would consider any substantial bids for winger Ivan Perisic. He is quoted by the Independent as revealing:

“Sure, there were rumours, but the status quo is that we want to keep Perisic, he’s an important player in the team and we’re counting on him to start the new season. Having said that, if someone comes in with a very difficult offer to reject, then we’ll consider that, but of course, we’ll need to find a valid alternative for Perisic as well.”

Negotiations for Perisic have been ongoing for weeks according to reports and it seems that United may have to stump up the cash if they are to get their man sooner rather than later.

The club are also tracking other options. One of those could be 16-year-old attacking midfielder Serkan Bakan. The Turkish starlet is very highly rated, having made his first start for minnows Gaziantepspor last season, scoring on his full debut. His agent, Ibrahim Polat, told ESPN:

“Manchester United and Tottenham have been scouting Bakan. Several clubs from Germany have also been keeping tabs following his debut season in the Super Lig. He already has goals in the cup and league. Serkan is a special talent, so it is natural for there to be a lot of interest.”

With just one year left on his contract at the small Turkish club, he could be offered out this summer with an exit looking possible. United may not yet be convinced, but he could be worth keeping an eye on in the years to come.