Manchester United are set to win the race for Juventus’ Stephan Lichtsteiner, who will be available on a free transfer once his current contract with the Serie A club ends in six months.
Premier League duo Arsenal and Chelsea have been keeping a close eye on the situation in Italy, with both clubs having previously bidding for the Switzerland international. The two Premier League clubs are hoping to beat rivals Manchester United to the signing of the Swiss, but Juventus are reportedly keen on keeping their assett in Turin.
However, should Lichtsteiner not sign a contract extension with the Italian champions before the end of the season, the Swiss will be available for free. And reports in Spain have claimed that Louis Van Gaal’s United are the favourites to sign Lichtsteiner.
It is understood that Van Gaal wants a new player to take hold of the right wing-back position, with the Dutch manager previously enquiring for Fiorentina’s Juan Cuadrado.
But it is believed that Van Gaal has now turned his attentions to Lichtsteiner, who represents better value for money, amid Cuadrado’s contract renewal with La Viola during the summer.
By Ollie Carroll
Twitter: @Ollie_Carroll
