Manchester United are continuing to pursue Alex Telles and have now agreed personal terms with the Porto left-back, though negotiations over a fee are reportedly becoming complicated.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is in the market for a new defender to challenge Luke Shaw for a place in the starting XI, with United turning to Telles after failing in their move for Tottenham new boy Sergio Reguilon.
United have been locked in talks over the deal and, according to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha, Telles’ representatives have already agreed a long-term contract with the Red Devils.
The Brazilian will sign a five-year deal and earn €4million (£3.6m) per year, which works out at around £70,000-a-week.
While United will be delighted to have wrapped up personal terms so quickly, talks with Porto over a fee are becoming difficult due to a number of clauses the Portuguese side are required to pay.
Telles’ former club Galatasaray included a 10% sell-on clause when they sold the left-back, while there are significant agent fees involved too.
That means Porto will miss out on 25% of the fee they receive from United; with the club demanding they receive €20m (£18m), that takes the total amount the Red Devils will need to bid to €27m (£24.7m) to ensure Porto get their asking price once the other shares are deducted.
United feel that price tag is too much for a player with just one year left on his contract and still hope to negotiate a lower fee, though Porto believe Telles’ recent call-up to the Brazil national team has solidified their position and the left-back’s reputation.
As things stand, Porto do not expect a breakthrough to happen soon and are planning for Telles to play in this weekend’s upcoming derby against Boavista, with talks likely to intensify as the transfer window draws closer.
