Manchester United have renewed their interest in Southampton’s England international full-back Nathaniel Clyne, who has already been the subject of an unsuccessful bid from Liverpool.
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Liverpool transfer news
According to reports in the Liverpool Echo, the Saints rejected our opening offer – believed to be worth around £10m – as they hold out for closer to £15m. And the Echo believe we’ll now face competition from United, who themselves are desperate for a new right-back.
With Glen Johnson set to leave and Jon Flanagan injured, the only right-sided defenders currently on our books are youngsters Javier Manquillo and Andre Wisdom. We finished last season with Emre Can playing in the position but the German has confirmed that he sees his future in midfield (via ESPN).
Meanwhile, United appear to have lost faith in Rafael, leaving Antonio Valencia as their only viable option. They were thought to favour a move for Barcelona’s Dani Alves but the Echo confirms that he has now signed a new contract with the Catalan giants.
This means that we look set for a straight transfer battle with our long-time rivals, as the South Coast club face a losing battle to hang on to one of their prize assets. Clyne’s contract expires at the end of next season (via the Mail) and it seems highly unlikely that Ronald Koeman will allow him to leave on a free in twelve months time.
Both ourselves and United poached players from the Saints last summer and it could come down to which of us they are more willing to do business with as they seek the best possible deal.