Seamus Coleman to Manchester United: Everton 'not willing to sell defender'

Right-back is reportedly among the transfer targets on the Old Trafford wish list

Simon Rice
Monday 29 June 2015 11:54 BST
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Everton are not prepared to sell Seamus Coleman to Manchester United, according to reports.

It's been claimed that the defender is considered as a potential recruit at Old Trafford as Louis van Gaal seeks to address United's problematic right-back position.

However, any bid would seemingly be rebuffed with the Liverpool Echo reporting that Everton manager Roberto Martinez sees the defender as integral to his plans and cannot countenance losing the Republic of Ireland international. With Coleman contracted to the club until 2019, Everton are in a strong position should the reported interest from Manchester United be backed up with a bid.

Van Gaal is on the look out for a new right-back after Rafael missed most of last season through injury resulting in a combination of Antonio Valencia, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones filling the position.

Even though Rafael can expect to be available for more games next campaign, questions over his ability to warrant the position on a long-term basis remain.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is working on bringing in new targets
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is working on bringing in new targets (Getty Images)

Manchester United were understood to be keen on Dani Alves however the out-of-contract Brazilian ended up agreeing a new deal with Barcelona.

Coleman has been a consistent performer for Everton since joining for £60,000 in 2009.

The 26-year-old has made 185 appearances and scored 12 goals - nine of which have come in the last two seasons. He is also capable of playing as a wing-back too which would appeal to Van Gaal.

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