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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Daniel Murphy

Manchester United 'poised to sign Stoke starlet Nathan Collins'

Manchester United are reportedly poised to sign Stoke youngster Nathan Collins after the defender was recommended to them by Darren Fletcher.

The 18-year-old centre-back is highly thought of at Stoke and made three appearances for the Potters towards the end of the season, including the full 90 minutes against play-off chasing Middlesbrough.

It's claimed by the Daily Mail that the Republic of Ireland U17 international was 'set to play a more prominent role at Stoke next season' but now former United midfielder Fletcher has advised the club to move for the defender.

Darren Fletcher came through the United academy and spent a total of 20 years at the club. He was released by Stoke at the end of this season.

It's understood that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring young, talented players to Old Trafford this summer and United have already been linked with Swansea star Daniel James.

Meanwhile, United will have to make Joao Felix the most expensive player in their history in order to sign him, according to reports.

Manchester United 'have £96m bid for Kalidou Koulibaly rejected'  

Manchester United 'prioritise' transfer to get best out of Paul Pogba  

The 19-year-old burst onto the scene with 15 goals and nine assists in 26 league games for Benfica this season as the Lisbon club won the league over bitter rivals Porto.

Felix's fine form has attracted interest from several of Europe's biggest clubs, including United, City, Juventus and Real Madrid, but he won't come cheap. 

The Evening Standard say United will have to smash the British transfer record to sign the forward and that the Portuguese club have set an initial valuation at £150m.

It's claimed that Benfica are prepared to lower those demands but will still seek a statement figure in the region of £100m.

Gareth Bale to Manchester United transfer odds slashed after latest Real Madrid snub  

Yannick Carrasco makes Premier League transfer admission amid Manchester United and Arsenal links  

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