According to reports from The Express yesterday morning, Arsenal and Manchester United are both targeting Zenit St. Petersburg centre-back Ezequiel Garay.
The 28 year-old came close to an Old Trafford move in summer 2013 until then-Red Devils boss David Moyes pulled the plug at the last minute.
The former Real Madrid and Benfica star went on to join Zenit instead and has since emerged as one of the top talents in the Russian top flight, whilst also featuring prominently for Argentina at last summer’s World Cup.
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He’s remained on the United radar and according to The Express, manager Louis van Gaal views him as a potential alternative to fellow centre-back targets Nicolas Otamendi (read more here) and Sergio Ramos (read more here).
But the Red Devils now face competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal. The Express claim January 2015 signing Gabriel Paulista could be sent out on loan if he struggles during pre-season, with Garay drafted in as his replacement.
Having joined the Russian outfit for just £4.2million, both clubs are hoping the 6 foot 1 defender will be available on the cheap.