Manchester United are set to enter the transfer market to rebuild their squad this summer but they will have to fight other top clubs to land some of their targets
Manchester United are said to be considering a surprise swoop for Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah in the upcoming transfer window - but they could stiff competition for the German's signature from Real Madrid.
The Red Devils have endured another difficult campaign and are set to record their lowest ever finish of the Premier League era under Ruben Amorim. The highly-rated Portuguese coach continues to work with predominantly the same squad he inherited from Erik ten Hag, though, with an overhaul expected this summer.
A host of names have already been linked with United, who are likely to strengthen in numerous positions. And Tah is on their radar when it comes to further reinforcements in defence.
As first revealed by Sky Sports, United are among the teams who admire Tah. The centre-half - who will be a free agent this summer - has impressed again for Bayern Leverkusen this season and has suitors across Europe, including in Spain.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are named in the report, although it is noted that a move to the Nou Camp is less likely owing to concerns over finances and registration issues.
Interest from Real Madrid is made all the more intriguing by the links between the club and current Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso. The former Spain international - and Los Blancos midfielder - is the red-hot favourite to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, who is seemingly poised to quit the Bernabeu before the Club World Cup kicks off in June.
Alonso's relationship with Tah could provide Real Madrid with an edge in the race to acquire the defender. They would also be able to offer the 29-year-old Champions League football; United would not be able to offer such an incentive unless they are victorious in the Europa League.
As well as a number of incomings, there is expected to be a flurry of transfer activity in terms of outgoings at Old Trafford this summer. Marcus Rashford and Antony are among those who are likely to attract interest after impressing during loan spells away at Aston Villa and Ajax respectively.
United face Athletic Bilbao in their Europa League semi-final over the next two weeks and have just a handful of Premier League fixtures remaining before a chance to reset.