Rohan Malip 
Manchester United have reportedly agreed a deal with Velez Sarsfield to sign attacker Thiago Almada, with the transfer to go through in the summer.
Almada’s future has remained the subject of speculation for some time, with Premier League links a constant.
Indeed, United have reportedly shown serious interest in the Argentine, as well as neighbours City. What’s more, previous reports have claimed that Arsenal are keen.
More recently, Liverpool have supposedly outlined a plan that they hope will tempt the 19-year-old.
According to Todofichajes, however, United have won the race and have agreed a pre-contract with the player.
The source claims that Almada will become a ‘cornerstone’ of the club’s project from next season onwards.
As for the fee, United have reportedly managed to avoid paying his €25million (£22million) release clause. Instead, the deal for Almada will only amount to €16million (£14million).
Todofichajes notes that the Argentine has been on United’s radar for ‘months’, alongside other top clubs.
Should the signing come through, Almada will be another addition to the Red Devils’ growing portfolio of exciting young signings.
Previous reports have indicated that the club’s focus has shifted from signing the world’s best talents, to picking up some of the most promising youngsters.
That strategy has seen them pick up exciting winger pair Facundo Pellistri and Amad Diallo in recent months.
Almada certainly fits into that category, the teenager becoming a key part of Sarsfield’s attack.
He has scored three goals in five league starts this season, in what is his third campaign with the club.
What’s more, Almada has made promising strides on the international stage, making seven appearances in Argentina’s Under-20 ranks.
Pogba plans contract talks
Meanwhile, Paul Pogba has said that he is planning talks with United over his future.
The Frenchman’s contract runs out at the end of next season, after his employers triggered their 12-month option.
And while he has faced a plethora of exit links in recent seasons, his form and mindset of late has thrown fresh doubt over his plans.
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