Transfer news: Late paperwork sees Real Madrid's Fabio Coentrao move to Manchester United collapse
Move for Portugual international came after failed bids for Leighton Baines
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
Manchester United's loan deal for Fabio Coentrao collapsed late on Monday night, with the club having failed to get the necessary agreement through in time.
Reports this morning were that the Real Madrid left-back had not been released in time for the deal to go through, leaving Fifa unable to confirm the loan. Madrid were seeking a replacement for him for their squad - also a deal that was not completed.
United made their move as it became clear during the day that there was no chance of a last-minute deal for Everton's Leighton Baines, a target for them all summer.
United made six bids for Baines - three individual and three joint bids including Marouane Fellaini. They bid £15m for Baines on Sunday night but Everton chairman Bill Kenwright was unwilling to entertain the offer - despite the player himself wishing to leave.
Coentrao, 25, was the emergency option having been made available by Madrid this summer. Regular left-back Patrice Evra will be out of contract next summer.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments