Transfer news: Juventus join Sporting Lisbon in the race for Manchester United winger Nani

English champions could be set to offload their Portuguese star as move for Juan Mata develops

David Moyes and Nani (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United winger Nani looks set to leave Old Trafford after Serie A leaders Juventus joined Sporting Lisbon in the pursuit of the Portuguese star.

Lisbon are keen on re-signing the 27-year-old they sold to United in 2007 on loan with a view to a permanent move this summer.

Juventus, however, are confident that the lure of winning honours in Italy - and so strengthening his World Cup chances - will be enough to prise the winger away from the Premier League.

Nani signed a new deal with David Moyes' side in the summer put has been a fringe player under the former Everton manager this season.

The Portugal international's midfield colleague Anderson moved to Italy earlier this week, joining Fiorentina.

Meanwhile United are set to overcome fervent efforts from Atlético Madrid to hijack their rumoured £40m-plus move for Juan Mata by concluding a club-record deal for the Chelsea playmaker by the weekend.

The Red Devils have slipped out of the FA Cup in the third round, lie fourteen points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal and are 2-1 behind in their two-legged Capital One Cup semi-final clash with strugglers Sunderland.