Manchester United in talks to sign Porto left-back Alex Telles

Manchester United are in talks to sign the Porto left-back Alex Telles.

The 27-year-old Brazilian has been targeted by United after they missed out on Sergio Reguilon, who has joined Tottenham Hotspur from Real Madrid.

United refused to agree to a buy-back clause in Reguilon’s contract, allowing Real to re-sign the 23-year-old for a fixed valuation, leaving the way open for Tottenham to sign the Spain international for a fee that could rise to €35 million (£32.1 million).

United have long been linked with a move for Telles and it is understood that negotiations are now finally underway with his representative, the super-agent Pini Zahavi over a long-term deal.

It is clear that United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is seeking greater depth at left-back for his squad with Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams – whose preferred position is on the other flank.

Telles has long been linked with a move to the Premier League and it is believed that personal terms will not be a problem although a fee is yet to be agreed with his club.

It is understood that Porto may accept a fee of around €20 million (£18.23million) for Telles, who has just one more year left on his contract and has indicated that he wants to leave before the transfer window closes next month.

Telles, who has just one cap for Brazil, has also previously played for Inter Milan – on loan – and Galatasaray and has an Italian passport.

Like Reguilon, he is primarily regarded as an attacking full-back. United may face competition from Paris Saint-Germain for Telles, following the long-term knee injury to Juan Bernat, but they are believed to remain favourites to sign the player who is keen to move to the Premier League.

The signing will also appease United fans who have been increasingly agitated at the apparent lack of transfer activity at the club – apart from signing the Dutch international midfielder Donny van de Beek from Ajax – and the frustrating pursuit of winger Jadon Sancho. United are looking at other options and, also, Telles can play in a more advanced position, although usually on the left flank.