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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
James Findlater

Manchester United target Paulo Dybala as 'Cristiano Ronaldo replacement' and more transfer rumours

Manchester United could be set to do battle with Arsenal over another player this summer, with reports in Italy linking them to Paulo Dybala.

The two clubs are already locked in a transfer race for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez. United have made a £37m offer after turning their attentions to the Argentina international, while the Gunners have reportedly been eyeing him up as their defensive priority throughout the summer.

Now reports are suggesting they could be after Martinez’s international teammate. According to Italian publication La Repubblica (via the Metro), both United and Arsenal have been in contact with Dybala’s agent Jorge Antun.

ALSO READ: How Manchester United could line up this season if Cristiano Ronaldo seals transfer exit

The 28-year-old is available as a free agent this summer after leaving Juventus. A move to Inter Milan was thought to be on the cards, although talks are said to have stalled following Romelu Lukaku’s return to the San Siro on loan.

United are claimed to be eyeing up Dybala as a possible replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo amid reports the Portugal international has asked to leave the club. Arsenal, meanwhile, are said to want a secondary striker to go with Gabriel Jesus — who is expected to complete his move from Manchester City.

Elsewhere, further reports in Italy suggest United have turned their attentions to Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij. Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Sport Witness) claim the Dutchman could be set to depart the San Siro this summer, with his contract expiring next year.

United are said to be keeping an eye on the 30-year-old as they target a new centre-back, having already made an offer for Martinez. Should they be beaten to the punch by Arsenal though, De Vrij could well come into the reckoning.

The Netherlands international is being touted as one of the players who could make way as Inter eye new signings this summer. De Vrij is said to be ‘waiting for a call’, either from his current club or another side, before deciding on his future.

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