Manchester United are reportedly ready to break the British transfer record, in order to secure the services of Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani.
Manager Louis van Gaal, who will take up the reins at Old Trafford after theWorld Cup, is reportedly looking to make some big signings, in order to improve United's chances in the Premier League next season.
However, as van Gaal is currently busy preparing Holland for the World Cup, executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is reportedly acting in his absence.
And, according to the Daily Star, United are ready to table a £56m bid for the Uruguayan.
Though PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi had earlier dismissed all speculations about Cavani making a move away from PSG this summer, there are reports that the 27-year-old is not happy playing second fiddle to Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Cavani surprisingly chose to join the French champions from Napoli in a £54m deal, despite interest from several big clubs including Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid.
The Uruguayan, who signed a five-year contract with the French outfit, managed to score 25 goals in all competitions, despite being deployed in an unfamiliar wide position by Laurent Blanc.
Meanwhile, United's other target Joao Miranda claims his agent has held talks with several clubs in Spain and England.
The defender managed to attract plenty of attention after playing a big hand in Atletico Madrid's success last season.
Miranda formed a lethal partnership with Diego Godin in the heart of Atletico's defence, conceding only 26 goals in La Liga.
Though United are keen on signing the Brazilian, who reportedly has a €30m (£24m) buy-out clause in his contract, Miranda says he will only consider the right move after receiving several offers.
"I have received several offers and we are negotiating. I have offers from the Spanish and English leagues, and other competitions. My agent is currently in Europe, resolving my future. My buy-out clause with Atletico Madrid is €30m, but that is negotiable," the 29-year-old told ESPN.
Meanwhile, Miranda expressed his disappointment after being left out of Brazil's World Cup squad by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.
"I'm sad. I was quite hopeful about getting called up and it was very disappointing to not make it into the 23-man squad. I'm enjoying a very good spell at the moment, both physically and technically. I believe I could have helped Brazil."
