Man Utd confident of Telles deal despite standout flaw in first official bid

Alex Telles Porto

Manchester United are confident they can bring Alex Telles to Old Trafford after making their first official bid for the Porto left-back, according to a report.

Heading into the final week of the transfer window, United are likely to be one of the busiest Premier League clubs.

The Red Devils have only signed Donny van de Beek so far, with their pursuit of right-winger Jadon Sancho dragging on.

However Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s side have switched their attentions to a new left-back in recent weeks. After Sergio Reguilon’s move to Tottenham, Porto’s Telles is their top target.

According to The Telegraph, United have made their move with a first official bid for the 27-year-old. The offer falls “significantly” short of Porto’s £18million asking price, the newspaper says.

However United are reportedly confident of striking a deal before next Monday’s deadline. Old Trafford chiefs believe they can persuade Porto to do business, given Telles’ situation.

The Brazilian has entered the final year of his contract, meaning he can agree a pre-contract deal with other clubs in January.

What’s more, he will become a free agent next summer and, in either case, he would leave without a fee. Indeed Porto are aware they will not be able to persuade Telles to extend his terms.

Porto had initially wanted more than £18million but, due to Telles’ situation, lowered their demands. However United believe they can do a deal for even less.

Telles in, Pereira out at Man Utd

Alex Telles

Meanwhile, United midfielder Andreas Pereira is close to leaving the club.

The Portuguese is one of several fringe players who the Red Devils could let go of this transfer window. He has fallen down the pecking order due to the arrivals of Bruno Fernandes and Donny van de Beek.

And after Corrierre dello Sport claimed he will travel to Rome for a medical with Lazio this week, the Serie A side confirmed their approach.

Read more from Monday’s Euro Paper Talk