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Southampton defender Nathaniel Clyne is set for talks over his future with the club, as Manchester United continue to show interest.
The departures of Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana last summer saw Southampton lose a number of notable top quality players, but boss Ronald Koeman has guided the Southern side to an impressive Champions League hope.
However, Manchester United, who signed left-back Shaw, have been interested in right-back Nathaniel Clyne for some-time, who has been impressing this season for both club and country.
The 23-year-old is currently in talks over a new deal at St. Mary’s, however, it is understood that talks are at a ‘crucial’ stage as Old Trafford bosses continue to lurk.
Louis van Gaal is keen to find a regular right back after using both Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young in that position this season.
United failed to sign Clyne from Crystal Palace in 2012 after Southampton beat them to his signature, but officials at the club are concerned that they may lose the youngster in January.
“The contact is between Les Reed [Southampton’s executive director] and the agent and Clyne, but I think after Wednesday it’s a good time to talk about that of course, we like to know what his decision is about the future,” Saints boss Ronald Koeman told reporters.
“I hope [he will stay], but I can understand if there is any interest from other clubs. We don’t have really a serious bid. It’s not I think the most difficult position. Normally the left-back position is more difficult to find good players.
“But, even the right full-back position, there are not a lot who have played on the level as Clyne has been doing this season.”
