Manchester United have shocked Atletico Madrid by meeting the release clause for their defender Lucas Hernandez.
That’s according to Marca, who claim United boss Jose Mourinho will end his long search for a new defender after the club triggered the €80m (£70m) exit fee for the France defender.
The Spanish paper claims Mourinho has tabled the “dizzying offer” to Atleti for the Frenchman, claiming the move will be done if the player agrees to the move and can agree personal terms.
It’s suggested the 22-year-old – who can play at centre-half or at left-back – will double his wages by moving to Old Trafford – leaving Atletico stunned and with no way of keeping a player they had hoped would stay.
Man City and Real Madrid have also been linked with a move for Hernandez – in France’s squad for their forthcoming internationals – but a January switch to Old Trafford now looks on.
Discussing interest from Real earlier this season, Hernandez explained why loyalty to Atleti saw him spurn their interest.
“I didn’t listen to it much. I was 100% committed to my club and also had just renewed my contract,” he told French outlet RMC. “My agent told me and as soon as he said Madrid were interested I said I couldn’t do it.
“Atletico are my city, my club, they have given me everything. I am an honest person and I couldn’t go to Madrid.”
Manchester United are in pursuit of a top quality center back after efforts from manager Jose Mourinho to sign one failed last summer.