Manolas contract negotiations stall, as Man Utd prepare to pounce

Negotiations over a new contract between AS Roma and their star defender Kostas Manaolas have broken down, according to reports in Italy.

Both Il Tempo and La Gazzetta dello Sport are reporting that the Greek defender is unwilling to accept Roma's offer of €2 million per year, and is holding out for a better deal.

This news will be music to the ears of several Premier League clubs who are on the look out of a top class centre-back.

Manchester United are thought to be monitoring the Manolas situation, as new manager José Mourinho looks to bolster his defensive options ahead of the new season.

United have already comleted the €40 million capture of Ivory Coast defender Eric Bailly from Villarreal this summer, but it is believed that Mourinho is keen to add further defensive reinforcements.

Arsenal and Chelsea are both also credited with an interest in Manolas.

New Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is keen on adding a new centre-back to the squad he inherited from Guus Hiddink, with Leonardo Bonucci and Kalidou Koulibaly thought to be top of his wish list.

But a move for Manolas could be on the cards as he faces defeat in his pursuit of Juventus' Bonucci, and Everton are providing stiff opposition in the battle for Koulibaly.

Arsenal were yesterday linked with a move for Juventus' young defender Daniele Rugani, but manager Arsene Wenger is also thought to be a fan of Manolas.