Manchester United 'contact River Plate about £17m striker Julian Alvarez'

Manchester United have reportedly made concrete their interest in Argentina star Julian Alvarez by making contact with River Plate.

Alvarez, 21, is catching the attention of a host of European football's elite clubs following a remarkable goal-scoring spree.

And now, according to Argentinian daily Ole, United have approach River Plate with the aim of stealing a march on their rivals and making an offer to sign the youngster.

In 46 matches played this year, Alvarez has scored 24 and provided 15.

Back in October Aston Villa were heavily linked with the starlet and were said to be on the brink of making a bid, though Alvarez's stock has risen even further since.

Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus and Atletico Madrid has all each been linked with Alvarez and have sent scouts to watch his performances in South America.

Alvarez has a £17m release clause in his contract which rises to £21m in the last 10 days of the January transfer window.

His eagerness to be picked for his country for the 2022 World Cup is said to be a motivating factor behind Alvarez being keen to secure a more to a top level club.

It could be all change in the attacking departments for United, with many shifts and movements set to occur in the coming weeks.

France international Anthony Martial has made his wish to leave Old Trafford clear, and has been linked with a January loan departure.

Likewise, veteran star Edinson Cavani is approaching the end of his deal and is courting heavy interest from Barcelona, who are keen to take him to LaLiga as a replacement for the recently retired Sergio Aguero.