Manchester United: Daniel James set to become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first signing in £18m transfer

Winger set to become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first signing

Mark Critchley
Northern Football Correspondent
Thursday 06 June 2019 12:12 BST
Comments
Solskjaer on 'disappointing' season finish

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Manchester United are close to completing the signing of Swansea City winger Daniel James, with the winger set to undergo a medical with the Old Trafford club.

James is expected become the first signing of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign after the two clubs agreed a fee of around £18m.

United will pay Swansea £15m up front for the 21-year-old, with the remaining £3m tied up in add-ons.

Though James has agreed personal terms and will sign subject to a medical, a full announcement may only be made next week.

As a young British talent, the Wales international fits the profile of player which Solskjaer is looking to bring to Old Trafford.

James was the subject of interest from several other clubs, including Brighton and Hove Albion and Leeds United.

However, United have led the race for James’ signature since stepping up their interest in the player in recent months.

Leeds came close to signing James in January, but negotiations over a loan with a view to buy broke down at the eleventh hour.

United had hoped to tempt Jadon Sancho away from Borussia Dortmund this summer, in a deal which would have cost within the region of £100m.

However, having failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League, their hopes of signing the 19-year-old winger collapsed.

James is a cheaper, more attainable alternative to Sancho, who appears likely to stay with Dortmund for at least another season.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in