Manchester United begin discussions with Benfica over Nicolas Gaitan... and Rafael could go opposite direction, claims agent

  • Manchester United offer Rafael as part of deal to sign Nicolas Gaitan
  • Red Devils have begun discussions with Benfica regarding star winger
  • Cassiano Pereira, Rafael's agent, hinted several offers have been tabled 
  • The Brazilian defender is keen on leaving United to join Portuguese side

By Matt Maltby For Mailonline

Published: 08:53 EST, 12 July 2015 | Updated: 01:25 EST, 13 July 2015

Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan and Rafael has been offered as part of a potential deal, according to the defender's agent.

The Red Devils have had a busy few days in the transfer window after signing Matteo Darmian from Torino and they are also on the verge of securing Germany international Bastian Schweinsteiger.

But Louis van Gaal is reportedly still on the hunt for new players and after signing defender Darmian, he would willing to sell right back Rafael.

Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan, according to Rafael's agent

Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan, according to Rafael's agent

The Red Devils have reportedly offered Rafael to the Portuguese side as part of a potential deal for Gaitan

The Red Devils have reportedly offered Rafael to the Portuguese side as part of a potential deal for Gaitan

Cassiano Pereira, who represents the Brazilian defender, has claimed United have begun negotiations with the Portuguese side regarding the Argentina international.

'Benfica and Manchester United are in negotiations over Gaitan and one offer includes Rafael to join Benfica,' he told Record.

'Rafael wants to join Benfica. It's a big European club. If the talks proceed, it will not be difficult to reach an agreement.'

Gaitan, 27, who signed a new deal with Benfica last year, has a release clause of €35 million (£25.1m). 

Gaitan, 27, who signed a new deal with Benfica last year, has a release clause of €35 million (£25.1m)

Gaitan, 27, who signed a new deal with Benfica last year, has a release clause of €35 million (£25.1m)

Comments (117)

Share what you think

 View all

The comments below have not been moderated.

 View all

The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline.

Add your comment

By posting your comment you agree to our house rules.

Who is this week's top commenter? Find out now