Manchester United in pole position to snaffle Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay

MANCHESTER UNITED are in pole position to snap up Ezequiel Garay in the transfer window.

 
Ezequiel Garay is backed to join Manchester United

The highly-rated left back was also linked with a return back to Real Madrid, with Fabio Coentrao tipped with a summer departure from the Bernebeu.

We reported earlier this year that United had acquired Garay after agreeing a £17m deal.

It seems that United have a 'gentlemen's agreement' in place and he could become David Moyes' first signing.

According to Portuguese publication Record, Garay is poised to join the Premier League champions for the above quoted transfer fee.

 
Garay could provide Patrice Evra (pictured) with competition if he were to move to Old Trafford

Manchester United favourites for Ezequiel Garay's signature

Though United aren't short of defensive options, Garay could provide competition for Patrice Evra, who is the undisputed No.1 left back at the club.

United had also previously been linked with a move for Garay's team-mate Nemanja Matic, although interest dissipated.

Garay, who racked up 41 appearances in all competitions for Benfica last season, was unable to help his side lift the league title, after they fell short to the eventual champions Porto.

copied from express.co.uk