Manchester United close in on second summer signing

Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic and could even complete a switch by the end of next week, reports ESPN.

Matic has been earmarked as a top transfer target by Jose Mourinho and the United boss has been given encouragement in pulling off a deal with the Premier League champions set to sign Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko.

Mourinho re-signed Matic during his second stint as Chelsea manager and their relationship is believed to have remained intact despite the fact the Serbia international dropped out of the team towards the end of Mourinho’s tenure at the club.

The United manager had earmarked Eric Dier as his first choice midfield target but the Premier League giants have refocused their attentions on Matic, as Tottenham were demanding £50m for the England international.

Mourinho’s side will instead look to pay £40m for Matic, who is reportedly keen to join United as he seeks a new challenge. The 28-year-old will be second player United have signed this summer after they announced a £30m deal for Benfica defender Victor Lindelof earlier this month.

In the last three Premier League campaigns only five midfielders have won more tackles than Matic (264).

For more stats on Nemanja Matic, click here to visit his WhoScored player page