Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has confirmed Manchester United have made offers for Antonio Valencia.
The Ecuador international could find he has the biggest boots to fill if arriving to off-set the world record departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid.
Valencia has been a long-term target for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and was particularly impressive in the 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford last term, giving John O'Shea a torrid evening.
The right winger missed a golden chance early into United's 2-1 win at The JJB Stadium towards the end of the season, but his overall performances last term have convinced United to earmark him as a potential recruit.
"They have been in touch with us and we will be starting negotiations very shortly, I would imagine," Whelan told Sky Sports News.
"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."