According to reports from The Daily Star, in-demand winger Nicolas Gaitan is ‘desperate’ to sign a new contract at Benfica.
The Argentina international is widely regarded as one of the biggest talents outside of Europe’s five leading top flights, having helped Benfica claim back-to-back Primeira Liga titles and reach two Europa League finals since 2012.
He was repeatedly linked with Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool throughout the summer window and reports earlier this month even claimed the Red Devils had agreed a £22million deal to bring the 27 year-old to Old Trafford – but pulled the plug at the last minute.
The Daily Star continue to list Gaitan as a ‘Liverpool and Manchester United target’, however, amid news he now wants to sign a new contract at Estadio da Luz that will see his salary rise to around £5million per year.
But in the long-term, the Premier League duo still have a good chance of signing the eleven-cap international, with his new deal expected to include a £25million release clause – a figure well within the financial reach of both clubs.