Transfer news: Manchester United set to miss out on Benfica's Ezequiel Garay

Long term target reportedly set for Russian switch

Ezequiel Garay of Benfca (Getty Images)

Manchester United look set to miss out on Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay after Zenit St Petersburg reportedly agreed a deal for the Argentine.

Garay has reportedly been a longstanding target of Manchester United's, linked with a switch to Old Trafford in several recent transfer windows, and was said to be clsoe to a move before Alex Ferguson retired.

However now it appears that Russian side Zenit have beaten the defending Premier League champions to the signature of the Argentine centre-back according to reports in Portugal.

According to local media, the Lisbon club have already agreed a £35m double deal that also includes striker Rodrigo, a former Bolton player.

While the news may come as a blow to David Moyes, he can at least console himself with the fact that Galatasaray have ruled out making a January move for reported target Nemanja Vidic.

Manager Roberto Mancini said: "Every manager would want a player as experienced as Vidic on their team.

"He is the type of player who can really make a difference, however, I need a player who can play Champions League football.

"It doesn't matter how good he is I need a player ahead for the Champions League urgently and as a result Vidic isn't in our plans."