United beat Liverpool to goalie Valdes? Coach van Gaal gives a hint
This could be a kick in the teeth for Liverpool fans hoping for a new goalkeeper.
Manchester United look to have leapt to the front of the queue in signing Victor Valdes, 32 - after Louis van Gaal gave a cryptic hint about signing the free agent.
The Dutchman had given the ex-Barcelona player his debut in 2002 during his second spell as Nou Camp boss.
Now Valdes has linked up with the Red Devils for training in a bid to regain his fitness after suffering a cruciate ligament injury in March.
While van Gaal claims that his offer to help Valdes in his rehabilitation is "not a surprise" because of the relationships with former players, the United manager did not rule out the idea of adding the Spaniard to his playing roster.
He would be an excellent deputy. Such a move would also provide competition for first-choice goalkeeper David de Gea.
Open
When asked about the likelihood of signing Valdes, the 63-year-old replied: "Manchester United always have their eyes open."
There were rumours that Valdes, who decided to part ways with Barcelona at the end of last season, was moving to Liverpool.
Their current No. 1 Simon Mignolet failed to inspire confidence with some dodgy displays for the Reds.
However, reports emerged that talks between the Merseysiders and Valdes' agent have broken down, paving the way for him to link up with Liverpool's fierce English rivals United instead,.
Newspaper the Mail Online claimed that a permanent agreement could be forged within the next two weeks.
Sources: Mail Online, Manchester United official website, The Guardian
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