United and Real chase Valencia

Wigan have received bids in excess of €18million from Manchester United and Real Madrid for Antonio Valencia, according to reports…

Wigan have received bids in excess of €18million from Manchester United and Real Madrid for Antonio Valencia, according to reports this morning.

The Ecuadorian winger has long been linked with the two European giants and it is now reported that the pair have tabled bids.

United are searching for creativity on the right after big-money signing Nani has failed to live up to expectations and Valencia is said to have impressed Alex Ferguson.

Real are desperate to overthrow Spanish and continental champions Barcelona and the 23-year-old was thought to be close to a move in the winter transfer window.

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A switch failed to materialise, but, according to Sky Sports, it is now understood that newly-elected president Florentino Perez, who has pledged a return to the dazzling days of star signings from his first spell at the Bernabeu, is ready to test Wigan's resolve.

Valencia joined Wigan in 2006 in a loan move from Recreativo de Huelva and the deal was made permanent in January 2008.

The Latics are currently without a manager following Steve Bruce's move to Sunderland, but Roberto Martinez is expected to be unveiled as successor on Wednesday.