Manchester United transfer news: Kevin Strootman one step away from joining Old Trafford club, reveals agent

Manchester United are reportedly closing in on the signing of AS Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman, confirmed his Italian agent Matteo Materazzi.

According to the Mirror, the Red Devils are just one step away from securing the Dutch midfielder's signature, who has been a massive target for Louis van Gaal since his arrival at Old Trafford in the summer.

The United manager had indicated earlier in the season that he is interested in signing Strootman, but was monitoring how the player recovers from the long-term knee injury he sustained last season. His injury kept him out of the World Cup in Brazil and for most of the season thus far.

The 24-year-old midfielder recently made his comeback to the Serie A side's first-team and the Red Devils boss is keen to make him a United player in the upcoming January transfer window.

Earlier in the season, there were reports suggesting that Van Gaal and Strootman had already come to an agreement regarding a move to Old Trafford, but it would only materialise the following summer.

It was believed that the Old Trafford club will make their move for the midfielder's services following the Serie A club's exit from this season's Champions League. But the Italians are adamant that the Netherlands star is not for sale and are angry with the transfer speculation.

However, the Italian agent has confirmed that the 20-time English champions are close to signing the Dutchman and that Roma have already agreed to a £32m fee with the Manchester-based club.

"Manchester [United] are one step away from Kevin Strootman," Materazzi said, as quoted by the Mirror.

"The British club will pay €40 million (£32mn) into the coffers of the Giallorossi," Materazzi added.