Lyon have rekindled their interest in Manchester United right-back Rafael and are now rapidly closing on his signature.
Rafael has been pushed down the defensive pecking order at Old Trafford this summer after Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal snapped up Italy international right-back Matteo Darmian from Torino.
Darmian is expected to be Van Gaal's first choice in the right-back slot and the Dutchman is ready to offload Rafael.
Lyon had initially looked at Rafael before turning away, but according to French sports daily L'Equipe, they are now not just back in the race, but leading it.
Indeed, Les Gones are now very close to signing the Brazilian from the Red Devils and Rafael could even arrive in France today in order to undergo a medical with the club on Monday.
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Rafael has just a further year left to run on his contract with Manchester United and Lyon are hoping to add the experienced defender to their ranks.
The 25-year-old joined Manchester United from the youth ranks of Brazilian outfit Fluminense.
Rafael has been capped twice at senior international level by Brazil.
