Manchester United Close to Signing Highly Rated La Liga Defender

• Man United are reportedly in a pole position to land the services of Pau Torres from Villarreal
• The La Liga centre-half has courted interest from a number of EPL clubs, with Man City, Spurs, and Chelsea believed to be keen to sign him
• However, reports in Spain contend that the highly-rated defender prefers a move to Old Trafford
• The 25-year-old's release clause at Villarreal is believed to be in the region of £51million

Premier League giants Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Villarreal defender Pau Torres.

The Red Devils are desperate to strengthen their defence this summer, with the incoming new boss, Erik ten Hag, keen to bolster his squad in preparation for the upcoming season.

According to GiveMeSports, the representatives of Torres are already in the UK with the hope of speeding up the transfer.

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While United are understood to be firm favourites to land the services of the highly-rated La Liga defender, they are sure to face stiff competition from Premier League rivals.

The Villarreal star has courted interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and Chelsea.

Reports suggest Tottenham also have Torres on their summer transfer wishlist, with the North London club also undergoing a rebuild under Antonio Conte.

However, Spanish media outlet Cadena Ser claims the centre-half would prefer to join the Red Devils than any other Premier League side.

The publication adds that United are in a pole position to win the race for Torres’ signature and club chiefs have internally discussed the same with Ten Hag.

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United are believed to have shortlisted the Dutchman in their summer transfer wishlist as Erik ten Hag kicks off his reign at Old Trafford.

But according to Timber, he would rather continue his development at Ajax than gamble on his future with a move to a "big club."