Manchester United transfer news: Red Devils dealt blow in £45m defender chase, Arsenal want United midfielder, and more - 28th December 2018

Hello and welcome to the daily Manchester United transfer round-up - your one-stop shop for all the latest Manchester United transfer news and rumours!

With the transfer window just three days away from commencing, the excitement levels amongst fans have already reached their respective peaks. Manchester United will claim a considerable amount of the limelight owing to their search for a defender to add steal to their backline.

The club has already done the required research and has been linked with various players regarding the position in question. However, only time will tell if the United hierarchy act as promised and back Ole Gunnar Solksjaer to bolster the squad in the transfer window.

Without further ado, let's have a look a look at the top stories concerning Manchester United for today.

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#3 Manchester United won't sell Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba is staying put at Manchester United!

The appointment of Ole Gunnar Solksjaer has breathed a new life in Paul Pogba, who has once again shown how important he is in the club' bid to revive themselves as champions of England.

However, the small bunch of doubts that still lingered over his uncertain future has now been quashed by the Red Devils.

According to The Telegraph, United won't let go of Pogba in January, amidst reports linking him with a move out of the club.

Juventus were said to be weighing a £125m move for the 25-year-old, while the likes of Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain had also shown interest in the midfielder.

United believe that with Jose Mourinho's sacking and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer in the hot seat, the Frenchman will return to his belligerent best. He is also commercially important to the club, which is why United will reject any offer tabled for him.

#2 Arsenal eyeing January move for Andreas Pereira

Andreas Pereira has grown frustrated due to lack of playing chances at Old Trafford

Andreas Pereira was one of the many unhappy figures struggling to make a mark at Old Trafford during Jose Mourinho's reign. Given the scarcity of minutes he has had to cope with, the Brazilian is now keen on embracing the exit door at the club.

Despite Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's assurances regarding more playing time, Pereira is out of patience and willing to join another club in January, the reports suggest.

Arsenal are said to be interested in offering the 22-year-old a way out of the club. With Aaron Ramsey set to leave the club, Unai Emery views Andreas Pereira as the perfect replacement for the Welshman. Everton and West Ham are also keen on landing him.

All the three clubs have reportedly contacted Pereira's agent directly and now it is up to the player to choose his next destination.

#1 Manchester United dealt blow in race for Eder Militao

Eder Militao has been on Manchester United's radar for quite some time

Eder Militao has emerged as one of the finest young defenders in Europe recently, following his impressive displays for FC Porto. Manchester United were rumoured to be tracking the 20-year-old, but it seems they aren't the only party interested in Militao as of late.

According to Express, Premier League rivals Manchester City and Liverpool are also said to be lining up bids for the defender, who is valued at £45m by FC Porto.

Militao extended his contract to 2023 in August this year, but the defender could leave if the £45m clause in his contract is triggered. With Manchester City and Liverpool holding superior positions in the league table in contrast to United, the Red Devils face the risk of losing him out to one of their rivals.

For more Manchester United transfer news and rumours, visit our Manchester United Transfer News page!