Manchester United may be able to acquire Real Madrid full-back Fabio Coentrao at a discounted price, according to new reports.
The Daily Mirror reported Saturday that Coentrao’s agent Jorge Mendes was in talks with United boss David Moyes about a possible transfer for £12 million, or about €14.45 million.
The Portuguese left-back almost moved to Old Trafford on the transfer deadline day in September, but the move fell through, and rumours suggest he is keen to leave in the winter window.
He has also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur, though United are more likely suitors as Moyes’s pursuit of Leighton Baines continues to stutter.
The Mirror further reported that Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti gave Coentrao permission to leave in order to seek more first-team action ahead of the 2014 World Cup. Coentrao has made only five appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions in the 2013-14 season.
He plays an important role in Portugal’s squad and helped them secure a place in Brazil along with fellow Madrid stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe.
Some believed Coentrao would stay at the Bernabeu after signing a contract extension through 2018 in November, but Spanish outlet AS reported on Dec. 30 that Madrid officials extended his contract in order to receive a greater transfer fee.
The 25-year-old defender has struggled for a consistent starting spot since arriving at Madrid from Benfica in 2011. Brazilian fullback Marcelo won the favour of former manager Jose Mourinho and has continued to remain first choice under Ancelotti.
Will be happy to see him go honestly. He deserves to play more. Both he and Marcelo are top quality players, but with the Brazilian’s attacking flair, he’ll always be a favorite at the Bernabeu. Still, it will be tough finding a suitable replacement. Arbeloa and Nacho can always play there in a pinch, but it’s still preferable to have a designated LB as backup.