Harry Diamond
Manchester United are becoming increasingly confident of securing the signing of Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin.
The Uruguayan centre-back was targeted by Jose Mourinho in the summer transfer window before opting to stay in Spain, but United believe they will be able to tempt the 32-year-old to Old Trafford.
Mourinho is still targeting defensive reinforcements after a disappointing start to the Premier League season and has identified Godin as a top target.
The Daily Star are reporting that United chief executive Ed Woodward has had several positive talks with Godin and his representatives, and that United are willing to activate a £20m release clause in the defender’s contract.
Godin has been with Atletico since 2010 and has gone on to establish himself as one of the world’s finest defenders. Mourinho had been keen to rekindle his interest in the player having become worried his side’s defensive inadequacies may cost Champions League qualification.