Manchester United transfer news: Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel also wanted by Valencia as they look to sign midfielder in January
Nigerian yet to feature under Antonio Conte and looks certain to leave this winter as he enters final six months of contract
MANCHESTER UNITED face stiff competition from Valencia in the race for Chelsea misfit John Obi Mikel, according to reports.
The Nigerian midfielder is yet to make an appearance under Antonio Conte this season.
And SunSport exclusively revealed earlier this week that former boss Jose Mourinho wants to bring Mikel to Old Trafford in January.
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United have made their worst-ever start to a Premier League campaign under the Special One, with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Paul Pogba failing to fire.
Many feel a no-nonsense anchorman would help the world-record signing make the most of his talent in midfield.
And with veteran Michael Carrick finding it tough to feature regularly, Chelsea man Mikel could be just the man for the job as he enters the final six months of his contract.
However, claims Valencia want to sign the Champions League winner as well this winter.
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The fallen Spanish giants are ready to pay £6.5million for Mikel, over three times more than United’s planned £2m bid.
The report adds Valencia are also prepared to meet his wages in full, and United may have to guarantee Mikel a first-team place in order to secure his signature.
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