Manchester Evening News: Manchester United Likely to Finalise Deal for Leicester Midfielder Page in January, Talks Close to Agreement

Manchester United are still progressing with a deal to sign Leicester City teenage talent Louis Page, and they are confident of bringing the midfielder to Old Trafford.

On the final day of the summer transfer window, the deal for the 18-year-old ultimately collapsed because the two clubs failed to reach an agreement on the transfer terms. Page being included in Leicester City's League One squad for their match against Plymouth also marked the temporary end of the move.

However, in reality, the closure of the transfer window has not brought many changes for the two clubs. According to the Manchester Evening News, Leicester City had previously demanded a transfer fee higher than the £10 million fixed fee plus £2.5 million in add-ons that Manchester City paid for 17-year-old Jeremy Monga, and the two sides were already close to reaching an agreement at that time.

The agreement at the time also included a clause for Page to return to Leicester City on loan this season. He differs from many of the young players Manchester United have signed in recent seasons, not only because of the high transfer fee involved, but also because he already has first-team experience.

Page turned 18 just after July this year. He made 18 appearances in the Championship last season and has become a regular starter this season.

Therefore, despite the deal not being completed on Tuesday, the two clubs have maintained communication. It is understood that the biggest disagreements earlier this week concerned the payment structure of the fixed transfer fee and the composition of the add-on clauses.

The only variable is that Arsenal could become interested in Page again, but Page has family in Manchester and recognises the development plan and vision Manchester United have outlined for him.

The transfer is very likely to be completed during the January transfer window, although the youngster is expected to remain at Leicester City for the rest of this season.