Jose Mourinho identifies Valencia’s Carlos Soler as primary January target

The January transfer window is fast approaching and recent reports suggest Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is lining up a bid for Valencia’s Carlos Soler.

According to The Independent, Mourinho attempted to bring in a winger during the summer transfer window in the form of Ivan Perisic but was unable to complete a deal.

Now, the Manchester United hierarchy has informed the Portuguese manager that funds will be significantly reduced – limiting his flexibility in the mid-season window.

Luke Shaw has been named as a player that could be sold to free up some funds, which will be necessary if Mourinho hopes to land the £40 million-rated Soler.

20-year-old Soler has performed well for Valencia, who have found their fortunes change drastically under the guidance of Marcelino – currently sitting 2nd in La Liga.

Soler, meanwhile, has picked up a goal and four assists in the 11 matches he has played in for Los Che.

The young Spaniard is capable of playing on either wing and has even been used in a more central position to help his club into their positive position.

But Mourinho will need to have some plans in place to sell players in order to sign the promising young midfielder.

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One possibility that could work for both Manchester United and Valencia would involve Andreas Pereira remaining at the Mestalla on a permanent basis.

The Brazilian winger has been on-loan to Valencia since the beginning of the season and has even spoken out in the media to suggest he is keen to remain in Spain permanently.

Pereira was seen as a potential starter for Manchester United during the summer but opted to go out on another loan spell in order to guarantee regular first-team football.

He has picked up a goal and three assists of his own in nine La Liga games and reportedly rejected the opportunity to return to United in January.

If United are able to free up some funds, they will be able to offer Pereira plus cash to capture Carlos Soler – a deal which appears to make sense for both clubs.

Valencia reportedly recorded a €26 million deficit this year and are in desperate need of some financial relief, making it necessary for the club to sell in the upcoming window.

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A big offer for Soler could no doubt sway the club’s owners, whilst seeing the club retain the promising Pereira on a permanent deal – ensuring the losses are as minimal as possible.