Manchester United look set to further bolster their midfield by finally landing Chelsea star Nemanja Matic.
After pursuing the player for much of the summer, Mourinho’s interest seemed to cool in Matic, especially in light of United snatching Romelu Lukaku from under the noses of Chelsea.
But after having been frustrated in attempts to sign Eric Dier from Tottenham and Nainggolan from AS Roma, Mourinho again turned his attention to Matic and slapped a £35 million bid in for him. This was rejected, but Mourinho was advised that a £50 million bid would be accepted.
It is very unlikely that United will be put off by this. Mourinho sees the defensive midfield position as an area that is need of strengthening and Matic was always his preferred option. The Serbian international, 28, has proven Premier League and Champions League class and experience and would slot into the position perfectly, with Michael Carrick and Ander Herrara supplying cover and competition.
Most importantly though it would release Paul Pogba much more than last season, allow him to express himself fully and show that he is the world’s most expensive signing for a reason.
With Ivan Perisic still expected to join, and United also linked with Bayern Munich’s Renato Sanches, this summer may yet prove to be the one Mourinho hoped for, after such a slow, frustrating start.