Manchester United transfer rumours: Diarra and Young head Ferguson hit-list

Barcelona appear to have beaten Manchester United to the signature of Alexis Sanchez, the Chilean winger is expected to complete a £32m move to the European champions from Udinese this week.

After losing out on Sanchez, United will instead complete the £17m transfer of Ashley Young from Aston Villa, subject to the 25-year-old agreeing personal terms this week.

The Old Trafford outfit will then turn their attention to Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra, according to reports in today's press.

The ex- Arsenal, Chelsea and Portsmouth player will be allowed to leave the Bernabeu this summer but Madrid are believed to value the player at £18m.

Reports over the weekend suggest Sir Alex Ferguson has been unsuccessful in his pursuit of Rennes' Yann M'Vila and Daniele De Rossi of Roma, and has identified Diarra as a suitable target.

The France international cost Real £20m when he signed from Portsmouth in 2009 but has struggled to break into the first team since Jose Mourinho's arrival.

Diarra's arrival could signal the end of Ji-Sung Park's Old Trafford career. The 30-year-old struggled in last month's Champions League final and has found opportunities limited since Antonio Valencia's return from injury. The Metro reports that Sevilla and Athletico Madrid are both interested in the South Korea international. Park could be used as a makeweight in a deal involving goalkeeper David de Gea.

Old Trafford exit

Wes Brown's future at Old Trafford looks set to be decided in the next week with Everton and Aston Villa both linked with the 31-year-old.

Brown's current contract expires in 2012 but with the emergence of Chris Smalling and the arrival of Phil Jones the former England international will be allowed to look for a new club this summer.

Gabriel Obertan could be allowed to leave Old Trafford as he looks to resurrect his career. The French winger made just three league starts last season and could join French champions Lille on a season-long loan.