Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Ajax's Daley Blind, following reports that the Dutchman is likely to leave the club this summer.
The 24-year-old, who was impressive under Louis van Gaal as Netherlands finished third in the 2014 World Cup, has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford.
And now, Ajax assistant coach Richard Witschge has admitted that the defender, who has been asked to train alone at the club, may leave this summer.
"I think Daley Blind will be leaving soon. I have a feeling... He has been training by himself. I think he has done that because there's something going on," ESPN quoted Witschge as saying.
Following the departures of Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic to Juventus, Queen Park Rangers and Inter Milan respectively, signing quality defenders is reportedly at the top of van Gaal's priority list as he looks to turn things around at Old Trafford this summer.
As the Dutchman looks to implement the new 3-5-2 system at United, Blind, who is capable of playing in a number of midfield and defensive positions, will certainly be a very good signing for the Red Devils.
Despite primarily being used as a central midfielder, the player, who was voted the Dutch Footballer of the Year after helping Ajax win their fourth successive Eredivisie title last season, was also impressive playing as a left-back for the Netherlands in the 2014 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Manchester United have made an offer for defender Thomas Vermaelen.
However, he insists that he would rather sell the Belgian to a foreign club than to a direct Premier League rival.
"Manchester United are part of the group (of bidders). He could leave. We have offers from abroad and ideally I would rather sell him to a club abroad. We're in a position where it's difficult to stand in his way," the Frenchman told Goal.
