Manchester United are reportedly in advanced talks with Athletic Bilbao to sign midfielder Ander Herrera.
Herrera, who turns 25 in August, was the head of much speculation in last season's summer transfer window, as Manchester United narrowly missed out on their man. Although, with a release clause of €36m (around £28.5m), set to rise to €42m in a matter of days on his contract, it looks almost certain that Herrera will become the first signing in Louis van Gaal's era at the Old Trafford helm.
Predominantly playing as a more advanced midfielder for the Basque side, Herrera also played in the centre of midfield and on the right side of the midfield a number of times. He possesses the skills that Manchester United need in the centre of the field, being well known for his long shots and dribbling with the ball, as well as filling out his defensive duties where necessary.
Herrera played in 31 games last season for Los Leones, scoring five goals and setting up five more for his team. He is yet to play for the Spanish national team, but has played from under-20s level onwards.
The signing could be completed as early as this afternoon, and will be the first in a string of expected arrivals, with Luke Shaw and Bastian Schweinsteiger also close to putting pen to paper.
