Angel Di Maria, who Manchester United have reportedly targeted as a significant acquisition this summer, does not want to return to Real Madrid for pre-season training on the expected date of the 5th of August, as reported by AS.com.

However, Man Utd might still be beaten to the punch for the talented midfielder, and will need to make an offer soon, with Paris Saint Germain stealing a march on their rivals for his signature. The Paris club have raised their bid for the midfielder to €75 million, having seen their previous offer of €65 million rejected by the Spanish giants.

While Carlo Ancelotti is keen to keep hold of the winger, Real’s hierarchy have stressed to the manager that they cannot afford to turn down a bid of that size for the player. It would help the club finance the signings of Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez, and the expected addition of Keylor Navas.

PSG will have to watch out, however, with Man Utd lurking. Louis van Gaal has reportedly identified Di Maria as a target, as reported today by the Daily Star. Furthermore, PSG may have to sell before they can buy, and will need to move on two of Ezequiel Lavezzi, Javier Pastore and Edinson Cavani to avoid further Financial Fair Play issues.

Spoughts

Editor