Wigan receive Valencia bids

07 June 2009 12:07
Sky Sports News understands Wigan have received bids in excess of £16million from Manchester United and Real Madrid for Antonio Valencia. The Ecuadorian winger has long been linked with the two European giants and it is now reported that the pair have tabled offers. United are searching for creativity after big-money signing Nani has failed to live up to expectations and Valencia is said to have impressed boss Sir 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. A switch failed to materialise, but 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.

Source: SKY_Sports