Valencia close in on Monaco defender Aymen Abdennour

Valencia are closing in on the signing of Monaco central defender Aymen Abdennour for a fee which could eventually rise to as much as 32 million euros. 

Abdennour will arrive at Mestalla as an immediate replacement for Nicolas Otamendi, who left for Manchester City earlier this month. 

Barcelona have had the 26-year-old Tunisian international watched and had pondered making a move for him this summer, but in the end they didn't take their interest any further. 

There was also reported to be late interest from Jose Mourinho's Chelsea as a response to Everton's reluctance to let John Stones leave the club. 

However, Valencia moved the quickest and Abdennour is expected in the City to complete his move this weekend.