Transfer News: Manchester United close to making their first January signing while Arsenal face Elneny troubles

English Premier League (EPL) club Manchester United could be hours away from making their first signing of the winter transfer window. Ukranian club Dynamo Kyiv’s defender Aleksandar Dragovic could be on his way to Old Trafford, according to reports.

The Austrian footballer, whose move to United failed 12 months ago, has agreed to join the 20-time EPL champions for £16 million (AU $33.1 million), according to Sport Mediaset.

Another Premier League club, Leicester City, who are having a fantastic season, were also linked with the Austrian defender earlier this month.

The 24-year-old who has 38-international caps for Austria was also linked with other Premier League heavyweights like Arsenal and West Ham United in 2013 before joining Kyiv. Dragovic made his name with the Swiss club FC Basel before making his move to Ukraine.

Dragovic has featured in six games for Kyiv in the Champions League this season where he has won six tackles with a success rate of 60%. He has made three interceptions, 20 clearances and one block, according to squawka.com.

Although Manchester United has had a good season in terms of defending, their best defender Chris Smalling has been rotating partnerships with Daley Blind, Phil Jones and Paddy McNair at the back. United coach Louis Van Gaal would love to add a solid defender who would form a good defending partnership with Smalling. Dragovic could be on his way to Old Trafford making it a reality.

Meanwhile, Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger has confirmed that FC Basel midfielder has joined his team.

“Elneny will of course join us. He has joined us. We will see if he can qualify for Sunday.” Wenger said, according to The Mirror.

Despite the Egyptian signing for the Gunners, Elneny could be out for over a year. The midfielder is yet to complete national service for his homeland which could see him miss up to 12 months for Arsenal.

There are two options present for the former El Mokawloon man. He either needs to be excused from the national service or must sign up and complete it before he turns 30.