Manchester United transfer news: £53m deal for centre-back in the offing, Rashford could move and more - 9th November, 2017

Manchester United want Umtiti next summer

Manchester United have targetted Barcelona centre-back Samuel Umtiti next season to bolster their defence, reports Daily Star.

United manager Jose Mourinho is still hunting down a world class defender to partner Eric Bailly and Phil Jones. Uncertainties have grown around Chris Smalling and Marcos Rojo's future at the club and Mourinho wants either one of Varane and Umtiti next season.

According to reports, despite being the first team regular Umtiti has a £53million release clause which United are positive about signing the Frenchman and bolster their defence.

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Rashford a target for Manchester City

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is planning to shock the English football by signing Marcus Rashford next season from his rival side Manchester United.

The Sun claims Guardiola has already contacted Man United about the possible transfer as he is a big fan of the England International.

Rashford has started the season brilliantly by scoring 7 goals and managing 6 assists so far this season. Reports claim Guardiola has promised Rashford more playing time than Jose Mourinho which could see the transfer going through.

Don Balon have further taken up the story where they are confident that Rashford is not adamant about finishing his career at Manchester United and could entertain the thought of joining City or any rival side of his boyhood club.

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Ozil sends message to United fans

A reunion with Mourinho is still on the cards

Arsenal star Mesut Ozil has confirmed that he is fully focused on staying at Emirates despite being heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks.

Ozil is in last year of his contract at Arsenal and is yet to agree to a new contract with the North London club. The Gunners are willing to negotiate a deal for Ozil in January and will accept any offer beyond £25million even if the bid comes from one of their rival clubs.

Man United manager Jose Mourinho is keen to add to his attacking options and is eyeing a reunion with Ozil who played some brilliant football under The Special One.

However, Ozil is determined to see out his contract with Arsenal and is willing to win over the fans and be a regular starter for Arsene Wenger.

In a recent interview, Ozil commented on his future and said: ‘Obviously people are going to write and speculate. But I am 100 percent an Arsenal player.

"I want to perform here and have fun here. ‘I’m enjoying my time here but I can’t say what will happen in the future.

"I generally don’t assess my own games. My objective is to bring my performance onto the pitch and help the team. So I let the others talk. It’s important for me to have fun on the field and be successful."