Man United target Valencia’s Otamendi

Valencia centre back Nicolás Otamendi has reportedly called an end to his stint at the Spanish club. The Guardian reports that he is willing to force a move out of the Mestalla to pursue greener pastures.

The Argentine is the subject of intense interest from Manchester United after the club failed in their attempt to lure Mats Hummels to Old Trafford. If the deal follows through, he will provide much needed mettle to the porous United backline. With 74 tackles, 111 interceptions and over 260 clearences this season for Valencia, this hard hitting 27-year old would be the perfect supplement to Louis van Gaal’s ongoing rebuilding process. Also, Otamendi is an indirect set piece threat and has contributed 6 goals this past season for Valencia.

All signs indicate that Nicolas Otamendi would be a good fit into van Gaal’s philosophy. However, Valencia are well aware of his qualities and will not let him go easily. A hefty sum of $54m should be enough to convince Valencia to part ways with their prized defensive asset, whom they bought from Porto just over an year ago for £8.5m.

Manchester United are desperate too add more defensive stability to their side and along with Otamendi, are also targeting Barcelona right-back Dani Alves who is reported to be unhappy at the Catalan club.