Southampton star Luke Shaw reportedly wanted to join Manchester United last month after the final game of the 2013/14 season.
The 18-year-old defender has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford and their initial bid of £27m was turned down by the Saints. The left-back has been a regular inclusion in his side’s starting XI after making his way to the senior team from Southampton’s youth setup.
The Guardian claims United then made an improved £30m offer in bringing Shaw to Old Trafford.
United’s last game of the season in May was against Shaw’s side at St Mary’s Stadium as the game ended in a 1-1 draw. According to BBC, the England international had held talks with Southampton’s hierarchy and made his intentions clear of joining the Red Devils.
The Saints have already allowed their striker Rickie Lambert join Liverpool earlier this month. After the sale of the 32-year-old to Brendan Rodgers’ side, Southampton confirmed the club will not sanction the sale of their players until they appoint a new manager.
Mauricio Pochettino joined Tottenham Hotspur on a five-year deal and the Saints are yet to appoint the Argentine’s successor. The club will not indulge in any transfer activities unless they confirm their next manager.
“Southampton Football Club can confirm that we have received multiple offers for some of our players in the past weeks. This is a confirmation of the depth of the development that is ongoing in our academy and of the present standing of our first team within the Premier League,” Southampton issued a statement.
“We are staying true to our plan and vision and, as a result, we have no need to accept any offers. We are deep in the process of appointing a new manager who will continue to move our club forward.”
“It remains our preference not to partake in any transfers until the new manager is in place. Our scouting & recruitment department continues to monitor targets we have identified to improve our squad, and the new manager will have final input into our recruitment process.”
Meanwhile, United have the services of Patrice Evra at Old Trafford as the French international recently signed a one-year contract extension.
Should the Red Devils fail to land Shaw, United could then shift their focus on signing Barcelona midfielder Jordi Alba, according to the Spanish newspaper AS.
However, it is unlikely that would be an easy task for the Old Trafford club as the Catalan club and their new manager Luis Enrique is unlikely to let the Spanish international allow Alba leave Camp Nou in the summer transfer window.
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