Manchester United quoted price for Portuguese star

Manchester United will need to pay a fee between €30-40m to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.

The Red Devils are expected to sign a top-class defensive midfielder this year, and Palhinha has emerged as the top transfer target.

According to O Jogo, Sporting are aware of the interest from United, who have been monitoring Palhinha in recent months.

The Portuguese has a €60m release clause on his contract, but it is reported that Sporting are willing to accept less for his sale.

They are willing to accept an initial fee of around €30m for Palhinha. Aside from United, Newcastle and Wolves are also interested.

United may have the advantage over the duo as they have maintained a good working relationship with Sporting over the years.

They have signed the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Marcos Rojo and Bruno Fernandes from the Primeira Liga giants.

Palhinha could be the next in line, judging by their strong interest.