Manchester United are being strongly linked with what would be a sensational summer move for Real Madrid and Spain star Sergio Ramos, potentially included as part of a deal for David de Gea heading to the Bernabeu. Rumours of Ramos' uncertain future have been bubbling away for several months and now could be United's opportunity to strike as they look to bolster their defensive unit. According to a report by the Independent, the Old Trafford club are confident they could snag the 29-year-old in an exchange deal for their goalkeeper. Real are said to value Ramos at around £46 million and United would likely have to throw in a cash offer as well, but certainly not anything extortionate. Crucially, the Spanish giants are yet to issue a stern 'hands off' warning, as they have done with others. United chief Ed Woodward will also take confidence from suggestions that Ramos is particularly unhappy he is yet to be offered a new Los Blancos contract. It is additionally thought the player was less than pleased to see Carlo Ancelotti dismissed in May. Recent reports claimed the 20-time English champions had already made Real well aware of their interest in Raphael Varane, but now it is Ramos who appears to be a much more attainable and preferable target. As far as other centre-back options are concerned, Mats Hummels seems unlikely to be available this summer, while Nicolas Otamendi would be much more expensive, with Valencia holding out for as much money as possible. The way things stand, United have leverage with regard to Ramos and he would certainly be a very popular signing among fans.
Talk Manchester United and Manchester City for What Culture. I can also be found on 90min.com, with occasional musings on Huffington Post and elsewhere.
