Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Manchester United in pole position to snaffle Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay
MANCHESTER UNITED are in pole position to snap up Ezequiel Garay in the transfer window.
The highly-rated central defender was also linked with a return to Real Madrid, as well as United's rivals Chelsea.
It was reported earlier this year that United had acquired Garay after agreeing a £17m deal.
It seems that United have a 'gentlemen's agreement' in place and he could yet become David Moyes' first signing.
According to Portuguese publication Record, Garay is still poised to join the Premier League champions for that £17m transfer fee.
Though United aren't short of defensive options, Garay could provide competition for Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans next season.
The Red Devils have also previously been linked with a move for Garay's team-mate Nemanja Matic, although interest have since dissipated.
Garay, who racked up 41 appearances in all competitions for Benfica last season, but was unable to help his side lift the league title as they fell short to the eventual champions Porto.