Manchester United are confident that they can sign Barcelona defender Dani Alves in the summer on a free transfer.
The Brazilian full-back will see his current contract expire at the Camp Nou in June and is fairly relaxed about his future at present, having turned down the opportunity to begin earlier talks over an extended deal with the La Liga giants.
Alves is said to be keen on playing in the Premier League before his career comes to an end and Barcelona have planned for his exit, having kept hold of Martin Montoya and signed Brazilian Douglas last summer.
Reports in England and Spain claim that United boss Louis van Gaal will use former Barca keeper Victor Valdes to tempt the Brazilian defender to Old Trafford.
Alves joined Barcelona in 2008 from Sevilla and has made over 300 appearances for the Catalans, winning the Champions League twice and La Liga title on four occasions.
