The chances of Manchester United landing Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat is in doubt amid growing frustration from the player's representatives.
The 27-year-old appeared to be a top target for Erik ten Hag's side who have been in the market for further midfield reinforcements but have been constrained by their need to raise funds through players sales.
Meanwhile, Amrabat has been absent from Fiorentina's opening fixtures and has even been training alone while he awaits a move to Old Trafford.
But according to The Telegraph, the glacial pace of United's dealings - and the looming transfer deadline - have led to frustration among the Moroccan international's camp, who are now considering their options.
Interest in the player has also emerged from LaLiga side Atletico Madrid, though the midfielder's preference is believed to be a move to the Premier League.
Premier League rivals Liverpool are also in the market for a combative midfielder and had been linked with Amrabat earlier in the window and this development could leave the door open for the Reds to pounce.
United are in urgent need of a defensive midfielder to help out Casemiro after his shaky start to the campaign, but their outlay of £170million on Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount and Andre Onana has restricted further recruitment.
Anthony Elanga, Fred and Alex Telles are the only senior players offloaded for a fee so far and further outgoings are needed to remain within Financial Fair Play [FFP] limits and enable further signings.
The injuries to left-backs Luke Shaw, who is set for an extended period of time on the sidelines with a muscle injury, and Tyrell Malacia have made the short term acquisition of a replacement a priority.
The club have submitted a £2.5m loan bid for Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella and have entered talks with the Blues who are looking for a £5m loan fee for their Spanish defender.