Man United warned that Valencia will not sell Nicolas Otamendi for less than £35m
Posted Wednesday, May 27, 2015 by Dailystar.co.uk
MANCHESTER UNITED have been warned that Nicolas Otamendi will cost them £35m - and not a penny less.
Valencia are prepared to dig their heels in over the Argentina defender, who United value at just £21m.
Otamendi is Louis van Gaal's top defensive target and United were put on red alert by the player's agent yesterday.
Eugenio Lopez claimed Otamendi told Valencia two months ago that he wants out and "will do everything possible" to make it happen.
But the Spanish club, who have qualified for the Champions League next season, quickly hit back.
Executive president Amadeo Salvo said: "Otamendi is a Valencia player and if he wants to leave I wait for him to tell us formally.
"If his agent has an offer I only warn him that the price is 50m euros (£35m) and that we will decide the form of payment."
United are willing to make a cash plus player bid to sweeten the deal, with the player believed to be striker Javier Hernandez.
NOT CHEAP: Valencia will not let Otamendi go easily
But Valencia are not interested and are holding out for the full release clause in Otamendi's contract.
The 27-year-old, who is under contract until 2019, is wanted by a number of clubs but favours a move to Old Trafford.
Salvo added: "Valencia have not received any offer. We are very happy with the player and we would like that he sees out his contract with us.
"Valencia do not give in to pressure from any agent or any comments. If Otamendi wants to leave he will have to say it publicly."
Van Gaal admits United must spend big money again this summer - before he jetted off on holiday using a low-budget airline.
The Dutchman guided United to fourth spot and a place in the Champions League in his first season in charge.
He spent £150m on six new players last summer, including a British record £59.7m on Argentine forward Angel Di Maria.
"The board of Manchester United shall say now we have to battle for the championship,' he said.
"It's a fantastic challenge but that's also dependable on how we can purchase very good players and how we can improve our balance in our selection.
"We need two players in every position and then they can perform more easily.
"I shall give everything to build a new champions team."
Meanwhile, United right-back Antonio Valencia has undergone minor ankle surgery which has left him a doubt for next month's Copa America with Ecuador.
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