Manchester United interest prompts Valencia to fast-track Justin de Haas deal | OneFootball

Valencia have tied up a deal for Famalicao centre-back Justin de Haas to June 2030, with Manchester United interest speeding talks. According to Superdeporte, a United scout had recently contacted the PSV Eindhoven-trained defender’s representatives.

CEO of football Ron Gourlay and director of scouting Lisandro Isei moved quickly to finalise terms with the 25-year-old. Head coach Carlos Corberán had already approved the move.

Talks began in November with January targeted, given belief he is ready to step from the Primeira Liga to La Liga. An urgent need for a right-sided centre-back after Mouctar Diakhaby’s long-term injury, plus president Miguel Ribeiro rejecting one million euros with five months left on his deal, complicated a winter switch. A later lack of free squad spots pushed planning to summer.

Work initially earmarked for 2026/27 was wrapped up within days, sealing a commitment with the former Lokomotiva defender. United’s emergence and growing attention from Portugal’s biggest clubs helped accelerate matters.

Benfica and Sporting were linked, while Championship sides also showed interest. Even so, La Liga, Mestalla and familiarity with compatriots Hans Gillhaus and Isei proved decisive, along with a strong chance of minutes.

Famalicao tried to renew de Haas, adding urgency for Valencia not to let January pass. The feeling around the deal, almost a certainty, was that delay would have cost them the opportunity. He has led a defence with 14 goals conceded in 19, fourth-best behind Porto, Sporting and Benfica, with 10 clean sheets matching the Lisbon clubs, Porto on 15.

Source: Superdeporte