Man Utd in the race to sign Porto winger Luis Diaz | OneFootball

Manchester United could offer competition to Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Porto winger Luis Diaz, Portuguese daily Record (today’s publication, page 16) reports.

The Red Devils recently watched the 25-year-old in action against Famalicao. It was followed by Sky Sports claiming that Spurs could pay €45 million plus €10m in add-ons for the Colombian.

It is now reported that the proposal has been deemed insufficient, and United could offer strong competition to sign the attacker before the transfer window closes.

The club recently sanctioned the loan exit of Anthony Martial. They are now tipped to fill the void with Diaz, who would love to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.

The Red Devils could have a realistic chance of signing him if they make a better offer than Spurs. Porto could be eyeing a deal worth €60m without the inclusion of add-ons.

Our view:

Diaz is a left-winger by trade and is enjoying his best campaign with 16 goals and six assists from 28 games. He has already eclipsed his tally from recent seasons.

The Colombian is at the top of his game. He is said to relish the prospect of playing in the Premier League in the prime of his career, but Spurs may struggle to lure him.

Diaz is eyeing a team that can challenge for trophies and compete in the Champions League regularly. United are ‘truly in the play’, but it is unclear whether they will make a move.

There has been no transfer activity whatsoever this month. It has been suggested that any incomings could be delayed until the summer when a permanent manager is appointed.

Despite the departure of Martial, United are well covered on the left wing with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, while Bruno Fernandes has also operated from the role occasionally.

Jesse Lingard has been out of contention, but he is another option until his contract expires in the summer. United don’t shy away from mid-season signings, but we don’t see Diaz joining.

The club are unlikely to look for reinforcements in attack. Sancho has yet to settle since his stunning €85m move from Borussia Dortmund, and there appears no need for another signing.

Instead, the hierarchy could invest their focus and energy in pursuing a new defensive midfielder. Marseille’s Boubacar Kamara could be available on a cut-price deal before Monday’s deadline.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.