Manchester United have reportedly opened discussions with representatives of Atletico Madrid winger Thomas Lemar over a summer transfer to Old Trafford.
The French winger is out of favour with Los Rojiblancos and looks primed for the exit door at the end of the season, with a long list of suitors ready and waiting.
Lemar had previously attracted interest from Arsenal and Liverpool, though it is United who have made the first move.
ESPN report United chiefs have already held talks with Lemar’s agent last week to agree terms, as they believe his creativity would be an asset to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
Despite the coronavirus halting all English football until April 30, summer transfer planning has gone ahead as usual behind the scenes.
The 24-year-old is allegedly unhappy with the amount of game time he has received at the Spanish club, starting just nine matches in La Liga this season.
On top of this, his form in front of goal has been woeful, in fact, he is yet to register a goal or an assist in the 24 appearances he has made.
The France international doesn’t feel his style of play fits with Diego Simeone’s more defensive philosophy and has long admired the attacking prowess of the top clubs in the Premier League.
Lemar was on United’s radar after his sparkling displays in Monaco’s 2016-17 title-winning campaign, but decided to make the £63 million switch to Atletico a year later.
The report suggests Lemar’s fee is likely to be high, given the winger has another three years on his contract at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Youngster Jude Bellingham looks increasingly likely to join the ranks at Old Trafford after being shown around the club’s facilities earlier this month.
Birmingham are resigned to losing their starlet, but are expected to hold out for at least £30 million by way of transfer fee.
Leicester’s James Maddison and Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubamayang are also on United’s list of targets.
After striking gold with their acquisition of Bruno Fernandes in January, United fans will be thrilled to hear that the club is linked with further high-profile targets.