Man Utd close to signing Jonathan Clauss?

Manchester United are reportedly set to beat Chelsea in the race to sign Lens defender Jonathan Clauss this summer.

The Red Devils are keen on pursuing a new right-back, and it recently emerged that they had made an approach for Clauss.

Journalist Pedro Almeida now claims that United are in 'advanced talks' to secure the transfer of the France international.

Clauss has transformed his career over the past two years at Lens. He bagged five goals and 11 assists for them last term.

The 29-year-old exclusively featured from the right wing-back position, but he should have no trouble adapting to a back four.

While Clauss is an attacking full-back, he has also impressed defensively. He averaged 1.7 tackles and two interceptions per game last season.

Chelsea have also been linked with the £8.5m-rated star, but could miss out on him if there is any truth to Almeida's transfer update.

Clauss wants regular minutes ahead of the World Cup, and United should offer him that. He should play ahead of Dalot at right-back.