Manchester United have been linked to Valencia’s Nicolas Otamendi and rumours have suggested that the 27-year-old defender is ready to force a move.

Otamendi was born in Buenos Aires and started his career at local club Vélez Sarsfield. He spent 15 years there, winning the title when he was 21. In his final season, he was included in the South American Team of the Year, in a journalists’ poll conducted by the newspaper El País, attracting the attention of European teams.

Porto paid €4 million, with Vélez retaining 50% of his registration rights. He signed a five year deal and stayed for four seasons, winning three league titles, the Europa League and UEFA Super Cup, amongst other domestic trophies. In his second year at the club, Porto paid Vélez so they owned the player outright.

In February 2014, Valencia and Porto agreed a deal to see Otamendi join the Spanish club in the summer for €12 million. In the 18 months since then, Valencia president, Amadeo Salvo, claims his pricetag has grown to €50 million.

“Valencia do not give in to pressure from any agent or any comments,” Salvo stated via the club’s Twitter account. “Valencia’s position will always be the same. If Otamendi wants to leave he will have to say it publicly. If he wants to go he will have to come to the club, not an agent, and pay what the club decide he is worth, which is €50 million at least, and with the payment structure that Valencia decide. Otamendi is a Valencia player and we are extremely happy with him. Valencia have not received any offer. In any case Valencia are very happy with the player and we would like that he sees out his contract with us.”