Manchester United transfer news: Van Gaal confident of signing Everton defender Seamus Coleman in January

Manchester United are reportedly all set to sign Everton defender Seamus Coleman in January, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Louis van Gaal has Rafael da Silva as the only recognised right-back in the squad and the Brazilian has struggled with multiple injuries this season. He fractured his cheek bone during the FA Cup clash against Yeovil Town, but returned to training last week.

The 24-year-old has started only six league games this season as the Dutchman has deployed winger-turned wing-back Antonio Valencia in the right-back position. Lack of options has forced Van Gaal to make an approach for Coleman.

David Moyes, the former United manager was keen on signing the 26-year-old during his time at Old Trafford. The Scot failed to sign the Everton defender and despite his exit, Red Devils are still interested in signing him.

United are preparing a £25m deal to bringing Coleman to Old Trafford. The 20-times English champions are confident of securing his services in the mid-season transfer window.

The Republic of Ireland international and his camp are unaware of the growing interest from United in landing the defender. He is unaffected by the ongoing speculations surrounding his future as he remains fully focused on his performance on the pitch.

Any move from United in acquiring Coleman's services is going to be a tough task for the Old Trafford outfit, as Everton manager Roberto Martinez has warned the Red Devils not to waste their time in chasing Coleman. The Toffees are unwilling to let their star player leave in January.

"I've said before that all that matters is to get some good momentum in the league and be as strong as we can be in the cups, so obviously we are not entertaining that sort of speculation of big sales," Martinez explained.

"We are not going to sell big assets we have at this football club in the January window, so those stories from the outside are a waste of time."

United are keen on signing the Everton star. However, failing to land Coleman this month will see United push for a transfer in summer.