Manchester United could be set to wrap up a deal to sign Valencia defender Nicolas Otamendi. The Argentine has been linked with United for some time, a new centre back is a much needed addition in the summer and although many names have been touted for a move, Otamendi seems like the most likely to make a move.

The news comes after Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reported that the Red Devils have agreed a four-year contract with the Argentinian and settled on a £25m fee with his club.

The news was reported by Schira on his Twitter account.

“MUFC has offered a contract until 2019.”

“Manchester United looking to close the deal for Nicolas Otamendi from Valencia for £25m.”

However reliable Nicolo Schira may or may not be, it has to be said that Manchester United completing a deal for Otamendi is very likely. The defender has been targeted by LvG for sometime, and is said to be the Dutchman’s top summer target.

The 27-year-old has a £35m release clause with Valencia, but United will almost certainly look to do business for a figure well below that.

It is clear Otamendi wants out of Valencia after just 1 year at the Spanish side, but the club may turn out to be more stubborn than many anticipated. Speaking in May, Valencia president Amadeo Salvo said: “If he wants to go, he will have to come to the club, not an agent, and [the buying club will have to] pay what [Valencia] decide he is worth, which is €50 million (£35m) at least, and with the payment structure that Valencia decide.”

Last month, Otamendi’s agent revealed that he had asked to leave.

Eugenio Lopez said: “Nicolas told Salvo to his face that he wanted to leave Valencia in the summer.

“Nicolas is happy at Valencia and with the fans but he’s got an option to improve on a professional level.

“Nico is going to do everything to leave.”

If Otamendi does arrive at Old Trafford, he will join fellow internationals Marcos Rojo and Angel di Maria. Last week Rojo favourited a tweet asking him to talk to Otamendi and tell him to finish up his deal with Manchester United soon. Something that could well be a good indication of how close the deal is.

After joining Porto for €4m, Otamendi moved to Valencia last year for €12m. His first year at the Spanish club saw him make La Liga’s team of the year and help his side qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Otamendi is the much needed unit at the back United long for. Although £35m may be a little steep, if a deal has been struck the price should be only a minor matter, as the Argentine is a defender who has world class capabilities.