Man Utd 'make initial bid' for Telles and hope to lower Porto transfer price

Manchester United have reportedly made an initial bid of £12million for Porto left-back Alex Telles.

Porto value the Brazil international at around £18m, but the Premier League giants are reportedly confident of lowering the price.

Telles, 27, is in the final year of his Porto deal, so unless he extends, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side know they will have the chance to sign him for free on a pre-contract agreement in January.

So United have submitted their opening offer in the hope of bringing the Portuguese club's price down, according to The Guardian.

The publication reports that the Red Devils are confident of completing a deal before next week's transfer deadline, as Telles is keen on the switch to Old Trafford.

It has been reported that the Brazilian has already agreed personal terms with United.

And last week he fuelled rumours that he is close to sealing a move after he 'liked' an Instagram post by Patrice Evra with reference to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.

Former United defender Patrice Evra took to Instagram on Thursday to post a picture of himself with his ex-manager Ferguson, recounting a story in which the Scottish manager's criticism of him led to him finishing a game as Man of the Match.

The post was 'liked' by Telles, and his activity did not go unnoticed by supporters of United.

One responded: "We see you Alex Telles", along with a pair of eyes emoji, while another said: "Man Utd target Alex Telles likes Patrice Evra post. Here we go!"

United have so far signed just one player this summer, with Donny van de Beek joining from Ajax for a £40m fee, and fans are getting frustrated with their lack of activity.

With just under a week until transfer deadline day, United are expected to step up their efforts to sign Jadon Sancho, although it remains to be seen whether Borussia Dortmund will relent on their £108m price tag.

Ismaila Sarr is believed to be on the the radar as a potential alternative, and the Red Devils have reportedly made an enquiry over the Watford winger's availability.