Nicolas Gaitan gives Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur boost after hinting at departure

Nicolas Gaitan in action for SL Benfica during the UEFA Europa League Final between Sevilla FC and SL Benfica at Juventus Arena

Nicolas Gaitan has admitted that he may move this summer to help out Benfica with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur both eager to sign up the midfielder.

Gaitan has been a star for Benfica in recent seasons and has been heavily linked with a move to England, with Manchester United in particular interested in the talent. Manchester United are looking at Gaitan as an alternative to Thomas Muller, after he signed a new deal at Bayern Munich.

Gaitan, whose reputation has blossomed since he joined Benfica from Boca Juniors in 2010. Gaitan can play on the wing, but can also operate through the middle of the park. A number of clubs have reportedly scouted Gaitan several times this season, during Benfica’s European exploits which saw them defeated in the final by Sevilla.

Gaitan recently said he would not be leaving Benfica this summer, but he now admits that he may have to leave to help Benfica with their financial difficulties.

Gaitan’s agent told reporters: “We’ve had many conversations about Gaitan in recent years but at the moment he is a Benfica player and only the club can make a decision on whether to release the player or not.

“If a potential buyer makes an offer that interests Benfica, we will carefully consider it.”

Gaitan added: “At the moment I am totally focused on playing for Benfica since I have a contract with them.”But I wouldn’t mind playing in a different league and, more importantly, to put the club first to help with their serious problems.”Now I am talking about a purely hypothetical situation but if there is a serious formal proposal that will suit the club then I will explore all options.”