Anthony Martial is man who has been in the footballing headlines all summer.

The Frenchman was surprisingly omitted from Les Bleus' World Cup squad, leading to speculation that he could leave Manchester United to enhance his international career.

His relationship with Jose Mourinho has been fractured ever since the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, with his game time reduced by the Chilean's presence.

However, despite rumblings that he was all set to leave Old Trafford this summer, he remains on United's books.

He's made it clear that he wants to go, but the Red Devils have been reluctant to sell.

But their stance has changed now after he decided to leave their US tour to be with his partner for the birth of their child in Paris.

Mourinho repeatedly stated in press conferences that he expected Martial to be back and the club have decided to fine the Frenchman around £180,000 for going AWOL.

It's a sticky situation, one which surely points to his eventual exit.

United will be wary not to sell him to a direct Premier League rival and this could strengthen Bayern Munich's case, who are known suitors for Martial.

And it seems United have issued an ultimatum to the German giants about a potential deal, demanding Robert Lewandowski as part of any deal.

A United source said, per The Sun: “Bayern are still keen and United have been after Lewandowski for a long time and want him.

“His agent is close to Jose and United and he is keeping them both in the loop along with Real Madrid.

“This is all down to whether he wants to go and Bayern are happy for him to leave. It’s up in the air.

“Bayern want Martial to take over from Ribery but don’t want to pay the excessive fee being asked for.”

Mourinho is a known fan of Lewandowski and with Bayern only willing to pay £50m for Martial - United value him at £70m - they may look to pull off a player-plus-cash exchange.

Man Utd fans, would Lewandowski be a suitable replacement for Martial? Have your say in the comment box below.