Spanish suitor trying to hijack deal for Man Utd outcast, as Prem pair hover

Marcos Rojo James Garner TEAMtalk

La Liga outfit Elche have joined the race for Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo, according to reports.

Rojo is destined to leave United this month after falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford. He only made three Premier League appearances last season, and has not appeared in the competition this term.

It seems negotiations for Rojo to leave the club are already quickly progressing. There were reports earlier this week that he was close to reaching an agreement with Boca Juniors in Argentina.

However, there is still a chance that Rojo could remain in Europe. According to Informacion (via Sport Witness), Elche now want to take him to Spain.

They would presumably have to act quickly, as they would be playing catch-up to Boca in negotiations. However, with neither club agreeing a fee with United yet, they still have a chance.

Elche are keen to strengthen their squad to help their battle against relegation. One of the key areas they want to reinforce is left-back.

 

They have drawn up a shortlist of three targets, but Rojo is at the top of the list. Elche know he can also cover at centre-back, so his versatility would make him an ideal target.

There are already several Argentine players at Elche, who could help him make the decision to move to Spain.

Premier League interest in Rojo

Alternatively, the defender could stay in the Premier League. Sheffield United have been mentioned as a potential suitor before, and the report from Informacion backs that up.

There is also reportedly interest from Newcastle, as well as two other unnamed Spanish clubs.

Therefore, Rojo will have plenty of options to choose from if the interested parties make formal offers for his services. United are not likely to stand in his way, so it is probable he will move on before the end of the month.

Elche will be one of the main contenders for his signature, but Rojo will be weighing up all his options as he looks to give himself the best chance of reviving his career.

READ MORE: Solskjaer plans January clear-out as Man Utd exit tally could hit six