Manchester United 'reach agreement with Villarreal to sign defender Eric Bailly'

Manchester United will reportedly splash out around £31m to sign Eric Bailly from Villarreal after reaching an agreement with the La Liga outfit.

The two clubs are said to have held successful talks last week over a deal for the talented 22-year-old defender, who was recently linked with a switch to Barcelona.

It is claimed by Spanish publication AS that United met the player's release clause, but will pay Villarreal in stages should the 15-time capped Ivory Coast international agree personal terms with the Red Devils.

Bailly, signed by the Yellow Submarine 12 months ago to replace Arsenal-bound centre-back Gabriel Paulista, made a total of 25 appearances for his club last season.