Manchester United Transfer Rumors 2015: Red Devils Look to Sign Pepe
While it looks like Manchester United are set to miss out on signing Sergio Ramos after the Spaniard agreed to a contract extension with Real Madrid, it appears that the English Premier League club is turning their attention to another star defender from the Bernabeau.
Reports claim that the Red Devils are eyeing a move to acquire Pepe as United try to bolster their defense ahead of the start of the season.
The Portuguese is in his last year of his current contract with Madrid, and it is believed that Madrid are in no interest in signing the experienced defender to another long-term contract given that Raphael Varane is ready to take over if Pepe leaves.
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Both United and Madrid understand that if they both wait for next summer, then the English club can land Pepe on a free transfer, but the La Liga outfit are more than likely to try and get something off the 32-year-old than simply moving him out to another European rival for nothing.
Known as a tough and willing defender, Pepe is popular with Madrid fans and the Portuguese crowd for his ultra aggressive style of play. More often than not, rivals laud him for his physical style of play, but Pepe has proven that he is effective and can win balls when needed.
With interest with Pepe, Real Madrid and Manchester United can now against restart negotiations with David De Gea. More likely, the La Liga outfit will use Pepe as a chip to lower the fee of De Gea as Madrid tries to acquire the Spanish goalkeeper.
As for United, if they really want to get Pepe and are desperate to add a vital piece on their defence, then a discounted fee on De Gea will make much sense for both parties to leave happy.
