Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 1st July Part Two: Higuain, David Villa and more

Manchester United are clear to sign Argentina centre-back Ezequiel Garay, 26, after his club, Benfica, signed his replacement, Arsenal de Sarandi defender Lisandro Lopez, 23.

Full story: Daily Mirror

What’s the story? United seem to be the main bidders on Garay. The only thing with this is, much of the negotiation seemed to be done before David Moyes arrived so presumably he will have approved this.

Does it make sense? Yes. United need a footballing defender to partner with a more rugged one. Garay makes sense as the long term successor to Rio Ferdinand in the footballing role.

Is the price right? Seems like it will cost at least £18m. Benfica are not an easy team to buy from so it could even sneak higher.

Will it happen? 8/10 – It’s been bubbling along for quite a while so seems like it will be tied up pretty soon.