Man Utd 'battle' for player with £103m release clause as interest in defender 'ramps up'

Manchester United are now preparing for a clash with West Ham United on Sunday. The Red Devils pulled off a brilliant yet clumsy win over Wolves during the week, but they must find consistency if they want to secure European qualification.

Erik ten Hag's men are currently in seventh place and one point behind West Ham in sixth, making this one an important clash. In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Old Trafford.

De Ligt links

United are said to be eyeing a defender transfer in the summer after finding themselves short at the back this term. Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt has been linked, and recent reports claim interest is intensifying ahead of the summer winodw.

According to L’Equipe, the centre-back didn't want to complete a winter transfer, preferring to stay with Bayern until at least the end of the season. The report claims United are eyeing a summer deal, while PSG remain intereste, with Barcelona also reportedly considering a move ahead of next season.

Neves interest

In another transfer battle, United are said to be battling with Manchester City for the signing of Benfica midfielder Joao Neves. Fichajes report the 19-year-old is commanding plenty of attention ahead of the summer, and his release clause is no joke.

Benfica, who have farmed plenty of talented players over recent years, have slapped a £103million release clause in Neves' contract. That's a big price for a 19-year-old, but the report claims both City and United are considering a summer deal, likely hoping to negotiate the Portuguese giants down to a lower fee for a player many believe is on course to be world-class.