Manchester United Transfer News: Will Red Devils Secure Leighton Baines?

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their chase for England international Leighton Baines—one of the Red Devils' top targets in the summer transfer window.

According to Mirror Football, United are trying to push through a deal for the defender as soon as possible so that the 27-year-old could join the Red Devils for their preseason fixtures.

The tour of South Africa and China begins on July 18, meaning that the deal would have to be completed and finalized in the next two weeks. That does seem unlikely, considering how far away Everton and United are from reaching a deal over the defender.

Everton are rumored to value Baines at around £20 million, but United don't believe he is worth that much, and are more likely to offer a bid around £15 million.

The cash-strapped Toffees are unlikely to sell the English international in a hurry—they will want to wait it out for the best possible price to come in. United will either have to offer more for Baines then, or accept the reality that he will not be joining the squad for their preseason matches.

Speaking ahead of their upcoming fixtures, Sir Alex Ferguson commented on the strength of the squad and the excitement to starting a new year of football.

"We are all looking forward to the pre-season tour. It's obviously very difficult in a year when we have had a Euro tournament and we also have the Olympics this year. The final tour squad hasn't been decided yet but we will be taking the strongest team we have available."

"I've always said how important it is to get a good pre-season behind us. We saw the impact a good pre-season had on the start of last year's campaign. We have incredible support in South Africa and in China and I am looking forward to returning to both countries to start our preparation for the new season."

United leave for their tour on July 16 and it appears they'll be leaving without Baines in their squad.

The English defender has been strongly linked to Old Trafford throughout the transfer window and was reportedly flattered by the prospect of a move to Manchester United.

He may very well still come to United—he just won't be coming any time soon however, and certainly not in time for the preseason tour.

Will Leighton Baines end up coming to Manchester United? 

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