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08th Jun 2017

Manchester United have made ‘remarkable advances’ in their pursuit of Fabinho

Monaco could lose another key player

Niall McIntyre

Manchester United’s attempts to secure the services of Fabinho, have been given a boost in the last few days.

Monaco’s 23-year-old midfielder has reportedly been a long-term target for United. The Brazilian signed a new contract with the French club last season, but a summer switch now could be on the cards.

Spanish newspaper Marca has claimed that United have made “remarkable advances in recent days” in their pursuit of the midfielder.

Fabinho, who spent the majority of Monaco’s Ligue 1 winning season in defensive midfield, but can also play at right-back, could cost United as much as £45m.

Manchester United have been on the hunt for a defensive midfielder throughout this transfer window, with Nemanja Matic and Eric Dier touted as potential targets.

However, Jose Mourinho handed Fabinho his first-team debut at Real Madrid in the 2012/13 season, so he knows the strengths of the Monaco player.

The United manager will have plenty of money to spend and will aim to have them competing for the Premier League title and Champions League next season.

Fabinho was a central figure in Monaco’s run to the semi-finals of the Champions League, where Leandro Jardim’s side were beaten by Juventus.

Atletico Madrid were said to be leading the charge for the Brazilians signature, but that avenue has been blocked with Diego Simeone’s side now under a transfer ban.