Manchester United Transfer News: Latest on Dani Alves and January Targets

If anyone out there believes that Manchester United's shopping spree is over after their astronomical summer splurge, think again.

The Red Devils flexed their financial muscle during the recent transfer window by signing some of the game's brightest talents, but a few lacklustre performances this season prove that investments still need to be made—particularly at the back.
And unsurprisingly, that's where manager Louis van Gaal is focusing his attention, with Barcelona's Dani Alves seemingly top of his wish list.

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The Brazilian right-back looked odds on to leave the Nou Camp during the summer, and while he just about managed to cling on to the red and blue shirt, it seems 2014/15 will be his curtain call in Catalonia.
According to Chisanga Malata of the Daily Star, United have agreed a deal to bring the 31-year-old to Old Trafford in the summer on a free transfer, with his contract with Barcelona expiring at the end of the current campaign.

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FIFA agent Francois Gallardo broke the news, as he confirmed that everything in place for Alves to switch to the Premier League—via Malata:
"The player will leave Barcelona next season. He has signed a preliminary agreement with Manchester United."
While Alves can be uttered in the same sentence as the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi as one of those who changed the dynamic of football, there's a reason why Barca aren't scrambling to get him to sign on the dotted line.

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The Brazilian is well into the winter of his career, and a few shaky performances already this season have suggested that the ceremonial boot hang-up isn't too far away, particularly with the talented Martin Montoya waiting in the wings to make Alves' position his own.