Man U Close In On Deal with Centre-Back Ezequiel Garay

Centre-back Ezequiel Garay is about to complete signing up with Manchester United, reports Portuguese Daily Record. The Argentinian native has been scouted for months by Old Trafford, ever since Sir Alex Fergusons time, until now with new manager David Moyes. Garay has been playing in the Primeira Liga since 2011. His club Benfica almost made the title last season, but late goals by the opposing team relegated them to being runners-up in the Europa League. At 26 years old, he has also established a reputable career experience outside of the Portuguese League; playing for Argentinian and Spanish leagues, most notable of which was a brief stint with Real Madrid from 2008 to 2011. As an international, he debuted with Argentina in 2007 and has 15 caps under his belt, playing alongside Messi, Aguero and Gago in the successful Under-20 World Cup in Amsterdam. Back to transfer news, it seems that the stars are aligning for Garay because circumstances are seemingly conspiring for his transfer to the Premier League. First, Benfica have recently signed Lisandro Lopez to replace him as center-half in their rotation. This means that Garay may not get as much playing time, which could further fuel his resolve to move to another team. Second, although Manchester veteran Rio Ferdinand has signed a 1 year contract extension, time is not on his side as he will turn 35 later this year. In addition to this, captain Nemanja Vidics future is looking quite uncertain given his series of injuries. Since David Moyes will not allow a shoddy lineup, it further bolsters the argument for a Garay acquisition. Last but not the least, Old Trafford has reportedly offered him a stunning 6m salary offer. This contract worth 115k a week would be a significant departure from his current deal at Benfica, and would tempt any rising footballer in search of greener pastures. The Garay camp are masters of silence and are mum about the prospective deal. Speaking with Lisbon reporters last June, Garays father was tightlipped and was giving nothing away. However, given Garays sighting in Englands North West allegedly scouting for houses, as well as his recent follow of Manchesters Twitter account, fuels further speculations of his mutual interest. Manchester United is expected to splurge 17m at the very least, which is the price for the defenders release clause. If successful, this would count as Moyes second signing for the summer, after their acquisition of 20 year old Guillermo Varela, a solid defensive full back from Uruguay Club Pearol.