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Man Utd news: Solskjaer closing in on first signing - ‘It’s a question of when and not if’
MANCHESTER UNITED boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is closing in on his first summer transfer signing - and it’s only a matter of ‘when, not if’ United sign Daniel James from Swansea.
Man United signing Daniel James is ‘encouraging’ says pundit
United are set to sign Daniel James from Swansea for around £15million, according to Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth.
The Wales international hasn’t agreed personal terms with United yet, but it’s not expected to be a problem.
Solskjaer is looking to sign James to kickstart the club’s upheaval, as he looks to sign a number of young, exciting talented players.
But, if they want to get the deal over the line, they’ll have to pay Swansea double what Leeds offered just six months ago.
Swansea City to Manchester United, there’s a feeling now it’s a question of when and not if
“This one we’ve been talking about for a few weeks now, this one looks like it’s moving closer,” Sheth told Sky Sports’ Transfer Talk podcast.
“Swansea City to Manchester United, there’s a feeling now it’s a question of when and not if.
“Personal terms not expected to be a problem, remember he almost joined Leeds in the January transfer window. Didn’t happen [for] £8.5m.
“But Manchester United suddenly enter the fray and it looks like the fee is thought to be more around double that, so around £15m.
“Still no agreement between the clubs, but it seems that that one will happen.”
James, 21, impressed at the Liberty Stadium last season, scoring four goals in 33 Championship appearances.
The left-sided winger - who can also play on the right - also recorded nine assists.
The Welshman is just one of a number of young players that United are targeting this summer, as the club looks to fight back next season and break into the top four of the Premier League.
The Red Devils have been linked to Ajax starlet Matthijs de Ligt, as well as Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff.
De Ligt is one of the most in-demand in world football, and United will face stiff competition to sign the Dutch defender from Barcelona and Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Newcastle will be digging in deep to retain the services of Longstaff this summer.
The Magpies have told United that he’s not for sale, as they’ll be left short in central midfield if Longstaff leaves.