Whelan ready for Valencia talks

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan expects to begin negotiations with Manchester United over £17m rated Antonio Valencia “very shortly”.

The Premier League champions have made their interest in the Ecuador winger known for “the last two or three months”, according to the Latics supremo, and are set to make a firm bid as they seek a replacement for the Real Madrid-bound Cristiano Ronaldo.

“They have been in touch with us and we will be starting negotiations very shortly, I would imagine,” Whelan said.

“United have been in touch with us over Antonio over the last two or three months, expressing an interest and putting cash offers on the table.

“Things will develop over the next seven to 14 days.”