Sir Alex Ferguson's 'verdict' on Man Utd's pursuit of Daniel James transfer

Sir Alex Ferguson has given Manchester United a thumbs up over the potential signing of Daniel James, according to reports.

The Red Devils are said to be closing in on a £15million transfer for the highly rated Swansea winger, having won the race for his signature ahead of Leeds, Everton and Newcastle .

And legendary manager Ferguson is happy with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer first bit of business as United chief.

“Sir Alex is a massive admirer of Dan James and convinced he is destined for big things," a source told Football Insider.

“He would never say that publicly and put too much pressure on him but he has been impressed by the kid.

“He doesn’t get too involved in our recruitment but he’s certainly excited by the signing of Dan James.”

Wales legend John Hartson, 44, says that he has not doubt James would be a success with United.

He said: “In recent years, Swansea have sold a complete team.

“Influential players like ­Lukasz Fabianski, Federico ­Fernandez, Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wilfried Bony have all gone.

“If they are offered in excess of £20million for Daniel, then it’s difficult to turn down.

“It would also be hard to deny the boy the ­opportunity of playing for Manchester United .

“He was very close to going to Leeds on the final day of the January transfer ­window for £10m.

“But I believe Swansea pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute because they thought, at that price, it was a steal.

“The transfer was almost over the line. I believe his parents were at Elland Road with the lad, but Swansea then told Leeds the deal was off.

“It wasn’t very nice for Daniel because he had probably pinned his hopes on joining Leeds, who then looked like they were on their way to the Premier League."