Man United 'making progress' on Pau Torres transfer (reliability: 4 stars)

Manchester United are making progress over a transfer for Pau Torres as the club remain determined to sign a new centre-back, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The MEN understands that there is a 'growing belief' among senior figures that a deal can be struck this summer.

The 24-year-old is believed to have impressed club officials as he won the Europa League last season after 120 minutes of play and a tense penalty shoot-out.

Torres has a release clause worth €60 million on his contract that runs till 2024 but the report claims Villarreal could be tempted with a 'player-plus-cash' swap.

The Spanish defender is back in contention after Real Madrid slapped an exorbitant £80 million price tag on Raphael Varane.