Manchester United Transfer News: Red Devils Continue Chase for Leighton Baines

Manchester United are continuing to chase Everton defender Leighton Baines over the summer transfer window, and the signs are looking promising for the Red Devils.

Mirror Football is reporting that the Toffees are already looking for Baines' replacement by joining the race for talented Wolverhampton Wolves defender and Stephen Ward. Ward will play for the Republic of Ireland in Euro 2012 tonight, with a decision on his future to made after the tournament is complete.

Baines was one of the star players for Everton throughout the season, but after falling under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson, he might be a tough prospect to hang on to over the summer. Their pursuit of Ward would seem to suggest a concession to a possible departure from the Englishman.

Everton originally wanted at least £15 million for Baines, though according to Goal.com, that figure could be reduced if United offer players in return for the defender. Ji-Sung Park as well as both Fabio and Rafael da Silva have all been talked about as potential sweeteners in the deal.

The 27-year-old was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for last season.

With well-known financial problems already in existence for the Merseyside club, any substantial offer on Baines may be the final straw for manager David Moyes—who would be definitely tempted to take the money and players on offer from Old Trafford.

Speaking on a potential move to United, Baines recently stated:

"

The United link is flattering. There is no harm in people talking about it because it is a great club. Would it be hard to turn United down? I'm not letting my focus shift to that while I am in camp—I'm focused on what I'm doing at the moment.

"

Manchester United have been a dominant force in the transfer window so far, with Shinji Kagawa and Angelo Henriquez already picked up by the Red Devils.

Baines would be another excellent signing, and could provide Sir Alex Ferguson with the stability and assurance in defense that was missing for United throughout the season. He would be an excellent fit at Old Trafford and could turn out to play an important role in the Red Devils' quest to win back the English Premier League next season.

Leighton Baines to Manchester United—fact or fiction?

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