Portugal midfielder Joao Moutinho could be set for a move to Premier League after Manchester United opened talks with Porto over a £20m deal.
The 25 year old joined the Primeira Liga champions in 2010 and has since been one of the constant figures in their side. The former Sporting youth player enhanced his reputation as one of Europe’s finest this Euro putting together a string of impressive displays for the national team.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is in search of a central midfielder to step into Paul Scholes’ shoes. The veteran has extended his current contract by a year but is unlikely to feature on a weekly basis for the Reds. Luka Modric was the frontrunner to join United this summer but Real Madrid won the bidding war for the Croat and the Spurs playmaker is set for a move to the Bernabeu.
Porto were believed to be disinterested to sell Moutinho but they have had a change of heart and are willing to listen to offers. A fee in the range of 20m could be enough to lure the Portuguese to Old Trafford.