Transfer News: Man Utd Open Talks For Midfield Duo

Manchester United have opened talks with Benfica over highly rated duo Nicolas Gaitan and Javi Garcia, according to reports this weekend.

United have been tracking the talented midfielders in recent months and the pair were hugely impressive during Benfica’s two champions league encounters with United this season. Sir Alex Ferguson is understood to have sent scouts to watch both Gaitan and Garcia in recent matches against Naval and Sporting Lisbon, and has received positive reports back.

According to several news outlets, Fergie has now contacted Benfica to register his interest and demanded that he be kept informed if any other clubs come in for the duo.

23-year-old Argentinean Gaitan has a £39m release clause in his contract and Benfica have suggested they want to keep hold of him for at least another season.

Spanish international Garcia has been linked with several European sides, including Arsenal and Liverpool, but Real Madrid have first refusal on the player after selling the 24-year-old to Benfica in 2009. Due to the abundance of midfield talent available at the Bernabeau its unlikely they would be interested in re-signing Garcia, which could leave the door open for United.

Ferguson is on the look-out for midfield reinforcements after injuries to Tom Cleverley and Andreson, with both being ruled out until around February. Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick have both also struggled so far this season leaving United short of midfield cover, and Garcia could be the defensive midfielder they have been crying out for.