Manchester United are closing in on Sporting Lisbon player Joao Mario. The report from Daily Star states that the Old Trafford management has held several discussions with the player and his agents and are confident of landing him in the summer.

Manchester United were earlier linked with Renato Sanchez, but missed out on the player after Bayern secured his signature. Mario’s release clause is £45 million and United are reported to be willing to match the amount in order to land the player. Sporting is not very keen to sell their star, but will not be able to stop the move if the release clause is met.

The Sporting president Bruno Carvalho has spoken to Mario and the player has expressed his interest to leave the club to join United. There is an understanding that the deal will be pursued irrespective of the fate of Louis Van Gaal in the summer.