Manchester United quoted £42m for defender Victor Lindelof?

Manchester United have been told to cough up £42m if they wish to sign Victor Lindelof from Benfica in January, according to a report.

The Red Devils are understood to be close to agreeing a deal for the Sweden international, who has been linked with a number of European clubs in recent weeks.

It was claimed at the weekend that United had made a £38m bid for the 22-year-old - £34m up front and the rest based on success-related bonuses - as manager Jose Mourinho looks to add more defensive cover to his ranks in the New Year.

Portuguese outlets Record and A Bola report that Benfica are holding out for a larger sum, however, making the most of a potential tug-of-war for Lindelof's services when the transfer window opens for business.

United are said to still be the frontrunners to sign Lindelof, with Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira currently in Britain to help thrash out a deal in the coming days.