Edinson Cavani closing in on a surprise switch to Villarreal

Edinson Cavani is reportedly closing in on a shocking move to Villarreal on a free transfer after reaching an agreement with the Spanish club.

The Uruguayan has been on the lookout for a new club since parting ways with Manchester United upon the expiry of his contract last month.

Turkish outfit Fenerbahce appeared to be the potential suitors for El Matador, however Villarreal have now moved ahead in the race.

Spanish outlet Marca claims that the Yellow Submarine have struck a verbal agreement with Cavani over a summer transfer, but a minor sticking point is delaying the deal.

The Yellow Submarine have been hit financially after missing out on the Champions League qualification last season, and departures are needed to facilitate new signings.

Villarreal have put up forwards Paco Alcacer and Arnaut Danjuma for sale, with Celta Vigo keen on the former’s signature.

Danjuma has also attracted a lot of suitors following an impressive season with Villarreal last term. He was recently linked with a move to West Ham United before the deal collapsed due to the club’s failure to agree personal terms.

Cavani is eager to reunite with Unai Emery at Villarreal, having previously worked with him at Paris Saint-Germain.

Having made a name for himself in top leagues like Premier League, Serie A and Ligue 1, La Liga remains one of the uncharted leagues for the Uruguayan striker.

Emery’s side are also working on a permanent transfer for Giovani Lo Celso, but they are yet to match Tottenham Hotspur’s asking fee of around €20 million.

They have to step up their efforts quickly since Serie A club Fiorentina are also pushing to sign the Argentine midfielder, who was impressive for the Yellow Submarine on loan last season.