Manchester United transfer news: Jose Mourinho to offer Marcos Rojo as part of a deal for Southampton defender Jose Fonte

MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to offer flop Marcos Rojo to Southampton as part of their bid to prise captain Jose Fonte away from the south coast.

But in a fresh twist United boss Jose Mourinho now faces competition from Arsenal for fellow countryman Fonte, 32.

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Mourinho wants Fonte to add experience to his back-line and the Euro 2016 winner is keen on the move despite being offered a new contract at Saints, making him their highest-paid player.

However Mourinho has been told he must ship out players before adding to his already top-heavy squad, paving the way for Arsenal rival Arsene Wenger to move for Fonte.

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Wenger needs to shore up his defence after losing centre back duo Per Mertesacker and Gabriel to injury.

Saints were admirers of Rojo before the Argentine joined United two years ago and would want a replacement for £8m Fonte before sanctioning any transfer.

The former Crystal Palace star has trained as normal this week and could also make his first appearance in the season against United on Friday.

Fonte, who has played almost 250 league games in six years in the south coast, was rested for Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Watford.

Saints are said to be relaxed about Fonte’s future and new manager Claude Puel last week insisted he would not be allowed to leave this summer.

His possible move to Old Trafford is being handled by Portuguese super agent Jorge Mendes.