‘Final details are still to be thrashed out between United and Rennes, but it's understood the deal has been done in principal and will be completed well before the Champions League transfer deadline of August 31,’ according to the supersorraway.
Rennes are reluctant to part company with general manager Pierre Dreossi telling L’Equpie: "Manchester have confirmed their interest in the player. But we are not interested in such a transfer as it's too late in the season and to find a suitable replacement would be difficult."
Leaving the door ajar for the future he adds:
'We haven't decided on anything we will reflect on the situation in the interests of everyone.
Speaking after Saturday’s match against Troyes Escude said: "I have done my time at Rennes. I can't pass up such an opportunity."
An oddly worded report on the official site says:
‘United's reported interest in signing French under-21 star Julien Escude is said to have waned over the weekend.’
However, Manchester United officials were said to be locked in negotiations with Rennes over a deal to bring the £5m-rated Frenchman to Old Trafford, although any deal now seems unlikely.
Manchester United are yet to make a comment on any deal to bring the defender to Old Trafford.’
So nobody seems to know.