Leighton Baines could be a Manchester United player by the end of next week.

The England international is viewed by Sir Alex Ferguson as the ideal challenger and eventual successor to Patrice Evra, the current Reds left fullback.

Baines is currently plying his trade at Everton, and whilst he grew up a boyhood fan of the Goodison Park club, he is eager to compete for the top honours in the game.

United want the 27-year-old in time for their pre-season training, and it is thought Ferguson will look to push through a £15million deal in the coming days.

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