Man Utd round-up: Red Devils cleared to sign Mane, Van Gaal drops interesting transfer hint

Manchester United couldn’t get all three points in their derby clash with Man City on Sunday afternoon with both teams playing out a lifeless 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.

The result will be seen as an opportunity missed by both teams as Arsenal are now level on points at the top of the league with City, whilst United slip down to fourth, just behind West Ham on goal difference.

From a Red Devils perspective, both Marcos Rojo and Anthony Martial played well but fans should be concerned by Wayne Rooney’s slump in form and the continued absence of Memphis Depay from the first team.

Although they are only two points behind the league leaders there is still obvious room for improvement at the club and Van Gaal’s men are now being linked some major names in the January transfer window and on that note here are the biggest stories doing the rounds at the Theatre of Dreams today.

Benfica are fearful that Nicolas Gaitan will join Man United and are preparing a contract offer to ward off any interest in their no.10 star. The Argentinian playmaker has scored three goals in three Champions League games this season. (Fichajes)

The boss on Valencia's substitution: "He had a kick on his foot in the first half. He played on but at the end he couldn't continue." #mufc
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 25, 2015

Van Gaal has confirmed that Ecuadorian full-back Antonio Valencia was substituted late in the second half due to a foot injury he received in the opening 45 minutes. The South American was replaced by Matteo Darmian late in the game. (Man United’s official Twitter account)

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard is being linked with a potentially sensational move to Old Trafford as his woes at the Blues continue. The Belgian international has been out of form for Jose Mourinho’s team but could cost around £70 million, should he leave Stamford Bridge. (Daily Star)

Rooney on Smalling in programme: 'He is one of the top three centre-halves in the world.' #mufc
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) October 25, 2015

Man Utd captain Wayne Rooney has hailed his team-mate Chris Smalling as one of the top three centre-halves in the world right. The defender has been in excellent form for the Red Devils this term and has arguably been the club’s most consistent player. (Manchester Evening News)

Juventus’ Paulo Dybala could be prepared to leave the club despite only joining them in the summer as he continues to be used sparingly by Old Lady boss Massimo Allegri. Furthermore, Man United are now ready to pay €40 million for the Champions League forward. (Calcio Mercato)