Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer spoke at length with Wales manager Ryan Giggs before deciding on a move for Swansea winger Daniel James, Metro.co.uk understands.
The midfielder is expected to become the Norwegian’s first signing for the club as United near a £15million agreement with Swansea.
The 21-year-old made his league debut for the Swans less than 12 months ago and the Yorkshire-born winger was quickly tapped up by Wales, who he qualified for through a Welsh grandparent.
James’ performance in Swansea’s FA Cup clash with Manchester City caught United’s eye in March and he scored his first goal for Wales a week later in just his second cap.
Solskjaer is keen to sign young, vibrant British players and Metro.co.uk understands he spoke to Giggs to get an understanding of James’ mentality.
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Giggs gave a glowing reference of James, revealing he had ‘no doubt’ about the winger’s quality, as well as praising his work-rate off the ball and his quality in transition.
Solskjaer believes United’s ‘superstar approach’ in the transfer market in recent years has failed and he wants to add players with hunger to his squad this summer.
The 46-year-old is placing as much importance on a player’s character as he is their quality, in a move that aligns with the approach of mentor Sir Alex Ferguson.
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United hope to conclude a deal for James in the coming days and have already agreed personal terms with the winger.
Solskjaer wants to sign as many as five players this summer with a right-back and central midfielder his next priorities.
