Manchester United target Nicolas Otamendi left out of Valencia kit launch

Nicolas Otamendi has been left out of the launch of Valencia's new kit for the 2015-16 season amid claims the defender is close to a move to Manchester United.

Argentina international Otamendi is not due back in training until 26 July following his Copa America campaign but a recent report from Marca claimed he is looking to have his future resolved before that date.

It was suggested Old Trafford is still the most likely destination for the 27-year-old, who is so eager to seal a move away from Valencia that he is looking to avoid returning to the city at all.

Valencia now look to be preparing for life without Otamendi after their kit launch on 16 July, where the Argentine was notable only by his absence.

Valencia-based newspaper Super Deporte also believes that United are favourites to secure the Argentina international's signature, although his €50m (£35m, $39.5m) release clause has prevented any deal from being struck so far.

The former Porto defender made his wishes known via his agent earlier this summer, with Eugenio Lopez explaining his client is desperate to leave in order to take the next step in his career.

"Two months ago Nicolas already told [former president] Amadeo Salvo he wants to leave Valencia this summer. If there's an offer from a club we consider a top club, and it benefits his family, Nico wants to go. There are many discussions with several clubs who want to sign Otamendi," Lopez told Cadena Ser in May.

With their midfield sufficiently strengthened, United are expected to add another centre-half to their ranks in the coming weeks. The club also remain heavily linked with Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos and according to Spanish daily AS, they are preparing a final offer of €60m for the Spain international. Real will reportedly not consider any offers below €90m, though, something that could see the club drop their interest and focus solely on Otamendi.